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JOURNAL 



OF THE 



LIFE, RELIGIOUS EXERCISES, AND TRAVELS 
IN THE WORK OF THE MINISTRY, 



OF 



RUFUS HALL, 



'/ 



LATE OF 



NORTHAMPTON, MONTGOMERY COUNTY, 
IN THE STATE OF NEW YORK. 



BYBERRY: 
PUBLISHED BY JOHN AND ISAAC COMLY. 

J. RICHARDS, PRINTER, PHILADELPHIA. 

1840. 



CONTENTS. 

His birth and parentage, page 1. Early impressions in relation 
to the resurrection, 2. Removal to Duchess county, New York, 3. 
Youthful vanities, 4. Visit of Robert Willis, 5. Thoughts on min- 
istry, 7. Mis marriage and remarks on weddings, 7, 8, 9. Scruples 
about wearing buckles and gloves, 10, 11. First appearance in the 
ministry, 13. His removal to Saratoga, 14, 15. Narrative and dif- 
ficulties of the revolutionary war, 16 — 19. Increase of Friends and 
of meetings in the northern parts of New York state, 20, 21,23. Re- 
marks on forming new settlements, 22. Account of Robert Nesbit, 
24. His first religious visit to New England, 25. Remarks on 
Friends launching out in speculations, and superfluities, 32. Year- 
ly Meeting's concern for reformation, 33. Carried out by a commit- 
tee of Easton Quarterly meeting within its limits, in a visit to all the 
families and meetings, 33 — 37. Religious exercises and prospects, 
37, 39. Visit to Pittstown and Petersburg, 39. Journey to Genes- 
see, Niagara and Canada, 42. Account of the falls of Niagara, 52. 
Of a hurricane in Canada, 53. Return home, 58. Remarks on the 
passage, "Study to be quiet, and do thy own business," 59. Reflec- 
tions on the pursuit of wealth, 69. Remarks on a lifeless ministry, 
72. Anne Hoag, 74. Epistle to Friends at Adolphus-town, Upper 
Canada, 75. Domestic trials, 80. Journey to Thirman's patent, 82. 
On spiritual worship, 83. On Priestcraft, 85. Account of Daniel 
Cornell, 86 — 88. Journey to Oxford, 89. Strictures on the manner 
of spending the 4th of 7th month, — visit to new settlers, 90. On at- 
tending week-day meetings, 91. Journey northward with Joseph 
Wilbur, 92, On silent meetings, 94 — 96. Journey to Oxford and 
Beekman-town, 97. On baptism, 98. Account of Mary Griffin, 99. 
Journey to attend the Yearly Meeting at New York, 101. Outwfcrd 
affairs, danger of a selfish spirit, 103. Caution to ministers, 104. — 
Visit to Queensbury and Thirman-town, 106. Nathan Hunt's visit, 
108. Do. of Reuben Palmer and Sarah Lundy, 109. Remarkable 
preservation from fire, 111. On paying taxes for warlike purposes, 
112. Visit to Johnstown, Northampton, &c, 115. Remarks on the 
practice of collecting companies of men to roll logs, and the use of 
spirituous liquors, 116. Visit to Danby and Vermont, 119. Death 



IV CONTENTS. 

of his father, 122. Several visits in company with John GifFord, 124. 
Death of his daughter-in-law Lois Hall, 126. Prospect of another 
visit to Upper Canada, 127. Left home in order to perform his se- 
cond visit to Upper Canada, 128. Difficulties in his journey to the 
Bay of Canty, 134. Return home, 136, Removal to Northampton, 
137. Visit to Beekman-town and Nine Partners, 137. Sale of his 
Farm at Easton, and remarks, 138. Visits on the subject of unau- 
thorised ministry, 140, Season of mental depression, 141. Visit to 
requesters at Western, and difficulties in the journey, 142. Short 
journeys, 144, 5. Visit to Friends and others about Western, 146. 
Do. Queensbury, 148. Journey to Black river on a committee, 149. 
Account of his attending the Yearly Meeting in New York, 151. — 
Prospect of a visit to the meetings within the Southern Quarters, 
153. Account of the journey, 154. Notice of Mary Griffin, 157. — 
Visit to parts of Vermont, 158. Journey to visit Friends in the Hol- 
land Purchase, 160. Reflections on the seasons, spiritually, 163. — 
Account of David Rowland's Death, 164. Decease of his sister Alice 
Hoxsie, 165. Account of a remarkable thunder storm, 165. Religi- 
ous meeting with his near neighbours, 167. Retrospective obser- 
vations, 169. Ladowick Hoxsie's memorial concerning Rufus Hall, 
170. Testimony of Galway monthly meeting concerning him, 172. 
Short account of W r illiam Odell, 175. 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL 



It hath been on my mind, at many times, to leave 
some memorandums of the gracious dealings of the 
Lord with my soul; and notwithstanding my gifts 
and talents are not very large, and my services in 
life have not been very great, as I conceive, yet there 
may something be picked out of my journal that 
may be of use, at least to the rising generation. 

I was born in the town of Exeter, Rhode Island, 
the 8th of the 6th month, 1744, of honest parents, 
Samuel and Dinah Hall, who were members of the 
society of Friends. They educated me, I suppose, 
in as good a manner as they were capable of — taking 
care to give me a little school learning, so that I can 
read tolerably well, and write and cypher sufficient 
for common business; at least I make it do. They 
took care also to get me to meetings often, and it had 
some good effect on me when very young; for I well 
remember the awful veneration I sometimes felt over 
my mind when sitting in those meetings; although 
I understood it not then, yet I believe there was 
something good at work in me at th&t early period 
of life. 

When I was in my eighth or ninth year, I was 
visited with a fit of sickness; at the same time my 
mother was sick also, and a doctor that was a colle- 
gian attended us nearly all one winter, and we both 
1 



2 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

recovered. Our doctor wrote a small pamphlet on 
the resurrection, in verse, and got it printed; and 
when he came to settle with my father in the spring, 
he made a present of one of his books to my mother. 
On looking into it, she found he had treated the sub- 
ject contrary to what she believed to be true; for he 
held forth a resurrection of the body at a certain day 
or time. She set no store by the book; but thinking 
it would induce me to get my reading again, which 
I had lost by sickness, she gave me the book. It 
being in verse, I read it with abundance of pleasure, 
and thought that the idea there set forth of the resur- 
rection of the body, was true. After I came to riper 
years, I found Friends did not join with that doctrine, 
but held the resurrection in another light: yet I could 
not understand how they did hold it, so that I began 
to think they were in an error; for I thought such 
a learned man as doctor Walton must certainly be 
right, and I could have no notion of the resurrection, 
only what my little book set forth; so that I was 
blundered about it many years. Neither did I ever 
find out what the resurrection was, until I witnessed 
it in my own heart to be effected by the light of 
Christ arising in me, raising me from dead works 
into the life and power of God. 

I have been particular in the relation of this cir- 
cumstance, to set forth the strong bias that education 
and superstition may produce on the tender minds 
of children, and perhaps on some of riper age; and 
also to point out the care parents ought to have in 
bringing up children. For it appears to me, had it 
not been for this error that I had so strongly taken 
in, I might have been much further forward in my 
judgment concerning principles than I was; although 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 6 

the Lord was good to me, he did not forsake me; but 
by degrees showed me the way I should walk. 

Not long after this sickness, my father sold his 
farm, and moved into Dutchess county, in the state 
of New York. Here, being six or seven miles from 
a Friends' meeting, the roads bad and a mountain in 
the way, we could not get to meeting so frequently 
as usual, and the family became more and more cor- 
rupted by loose and unprofitable company, especially 
on the first day of the week. In the space of four 
years that we lived there, I became considerably 
corrupted, but all along thought that some time I 
would do better; not considering that putting it off 
for some other time, was making it harder for me 
to do it. 

About the beginning of the commotions in 1756, 
my father sold his farm, and moved to a place called 
Oswego, within three miles of a Friends' meeting; 
but by this time I began to have a distaste for religi- 
ous meetings, and a great relish for vain company, 
joking and singing songs. This was all unknown 
to my parents; for I knew they would not counte- 
nance me in such things. Thus I went on for some 
time, until I grew weary of myself, for I still had 
times of seriousness, and saw plainly if I went on at 
this rate, I should soon be undone: for horror of soul 
seized me, and I was convinced, if I did not repent 
and amend my life that everlasting destruction would 
be my portion. Thus I was brought into a state of 
seeking,* and at length I formed a resolution that I 
would take good heed to the secret motions m my 

*Two pages are here missing in the original MS. — they probably 
contained an account of the author's first recognition of a Divine 
principle. 



4 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

heart. Now I found myself constrained to forsake 
many things I had before allowed myself in; but the 
thoughts of leaving my companions came so close to 
my life, or the life I then lived in, that I let in the 
reasoner in this sort:— I am young, and why should I 
sacrifice the time of my youth in living a serious life? 
There are many good men that are grown old, who 
in their youth were as wicked as I am, perhaps more 
so, and it is. time enough for me to repent when I 
am older, and it will then be easier to forsake wick- 
ed company; for men as they grow old, have not so 
strong an inclination for pleasure as young people 
have; and therefore it will not be so hard to wean 
themselves from it. Besides, it appears to me there 
is more liberty allowed to youth than to old age, or 
surely they would not have been endued with so 
much stronger inclinations to pleasure. With such 
like reasonings I was drawn off time after time, until 
I became almost entirely captivated by satan again,, 
or at least so far that I allowed myself to do many 
things that did not give me satisfaction in some of 
my more serious moments: for all this time I had by 
intervals some visitations of Divine good. Thus I 
went on sinning and being reproved for it, far some 
time. 

Although I attended Friends' meetings pretty con- 
stantly, it was merely in conformity to my parents; 
for I ever had a regard to them, though I did not 
always act consistent therewith; yet in attending 
meetings I mostly gave way to their requirings: and 
I can now say that I never repented it; but have 
many times been sorry I was not more careful than 
I was in obeying their commands fully; believing 
that if children who have religious parents, would 



JOURNAL OP RUFUS HALL. 5 

conform to their advice, though it may sometimes 
seem to be hard or even unreasonable, yet in time 
it would be found to be to their advancement in the 
best things. This I think I have learned by expe- 
rience to be a great truth. 

It was about this time, while my mind was in 
these struggles, that our worthy friend Robert Wil- 
lis came through the country visiting families, and 
was at our house, and had a sitting in the family. — 
When I observed his serious countenance, I felt guilt 
in my mind and tried to sit in as bye a place as I 
could, for I thought the Friend would discover my 
very inside. Thus wicked people are afraid of good 
men, although they are in truth their best friends. 
Robert had a favoured time in a very lengthy dis- 
course amongst us, and towards the latter end of his 
testimony, he spoke so exactly to my condition, that 
I concluded nothing but Divine assistance could let 
him see it so plain and clear as he did. I was broken 
down into a flood of tears and silent lamentation for 
my undone condition, so that I began to think of 
covenanting with my God, that if he would forgive 
me, and favour me with his good will, instead of his 
displeasure, I would be more faithful for the time to 
come. When the sitting broke up, Robert took me 
by the hand, and in a tender, loving manner, said, 
"young man, see that thou do not endeavour to get 
from under the sketch of the net/' The whole fami- 
ly seemed much affected, and I think it was a pecu- 
liar favour from Divine goodness to us all. 

The transgressing nature in me, notwithstanding^ 

was so strong that the same day in the afternoon I 

renewed a resolution to go to a town meeting, and 

went to one of my uncles, on the way thither: with 

1* 



6 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

several of my cousins and acquaintance I went to 
another cousin's house to spend the evening in mer- 
riment, but not without some considerable condem- 
nation in my own heart. Some of them proposed 
for me to sing a song for them. I at first objected 
for reasons I was not willing to give. But they all 
insisted on it, as I had many times gratified them in 
that way; so after a great deal of persuading, I un- 
dertook it; but the conviction I felt was so strong 
that it affected my speech in such a manner that I be- 
lieve I did not deliver my words distinctly. How- 
ever I got through with my song, and they did not 
ask me to sing any more. Next day I went to the 
town meeting with my comrades, but was so con- 
victed in my mind that I could take no pleasure m 
their company — &o I came home-, sick enough of my 
journey. 

Finding I was now no company for rude people, 
I began to be weaned from them, yet did not think 
myself fit for sober company; so that I sought to be 
alone, and looked upon myself to be one of the most 
miserable creatures in the world. I began to think 
I had sinned the unpardonable sin against the Holy 
Ghost; though I did not know what that sin was, yet 
I knew I had sinned against light and knowledge, 
and I feared it never would be forgiven. I consider- 
ed I had been favoured, both by the secret testimony 
of light and truth in my own heart, and my case had 
been laid open to me by the aforesaid friend Robert 
Willis: all which made my condition look gloomy 
to me. Thus I struggled as it were for life, for some 
days, and had only now and then a little glimpse of 
hope; till at length the Lord in his wonderful mercy 
was pleased to appear for my encouragement, and I 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 7 

ventured again to renew my covenant with him, and 
he visited me in mercy and good will to the refresh- 
ing of my soul. 

Now I had openings in my mind concerning the 
scriptures; passages would occur to my memory, and 
the signification of them did open in a remarkable 
manner; which served to confirm me that the Lord 
did in some measure own me. 

One thing often came into my mind, that seemed 
to be a mystery — it was this; how a minister of the 
gospel knew that he was rightly called to that weighty 
work; or how did he know when to stand up and 
what to say? It appeared to me he ought to be divine- 
ly inspired, and I could not see how it was brought 
about. Not thinking it would ever be my lot to be 
concerned that way, I endeavoured to get rid of these 
thoughts as matters that need not concern me. 

In the meantime I had several exercises to go- 
through, and was not without some missteps, some 
of them not very small neither; yet the Lord was 
so good to me that I rather gained ground of the 
adversary. 

I have now brought up my account to my twenty- 
fourth year, about which time I was married to Anne 
Hoxsie, daughter of Zebulon and Sarah Hoxsie of 
Oswego, now Beekmantown, Dutchess county. On 
this occasion I feel a freedom to make some remarks. 
I have ever looked upon it a very weighty engage- 
ment to enter into marriage covenant, and that it 
ought to be done in a solemn manner. I have thought 
it hath at some times been done in our meetings, so 
far as it was done there, in a satisfactory manner. — 
But when I have observed the large collection of 
Friends and sometimes others, that accompany the 



8 JOURNAL OP RUFUS HALL. 

couple to dine and spend the afternoon with one an- 
other, I believe it is not very profitable in common. 
There may not be any thing done that is heinous, 
yet in very few of these gatherings, if any, but there 
is more or less unprofitable talking, sometimes jesting, 
if nothing worse, which has a tendency to draw the 
mind ofi from that solemnity which ought to attend 
it.when it hath been favoured with a good meeting. 
And it looks to me inconsistent with right order to 
have large gatherings at such times more than at 
other times. Would there not be more consistency 
in our conduct if we were not to invite so many to 
dine with us at these times? It seems clear to me it 
would be much better, and would ease Friends of con- 
siderable labour and exercise also. 

I am not insensible that I have now touched a 
point that is tender with some — even good Friends. 
I am sensible of the strength of custom and force of 
tradition. Some will say these things have been al- 
lowed these many generations. Even good Friends 
have had and made great marriages, and they were 
thought well of, and Jesus Christ attended a marriage 
and wrought a peculiar miracle thereat, which seems 
to ratify it by Divine authority: and for aught I know 
thou art the first that ever opposed it. I answer, that 
my being the first, makes nothing in favour of the 
continuation: Friends having been in the custom a 
long time, of making large weddings, doth no more 
justify the practice, unless it is right and useful, than 
their keeping negroes in slavery ought to perpetuate 
that practice, which is now seen clearly to be very 
inconsistent. And as to Jesus attending the marriage, 
it no more tolerates making large preparations at 
such times in this gospel day, than his being circum- 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. V 

cised, baptized, and conforming to many other Jewish 
rites, would tolerate them in this day. And I see 
not why his working a miracle at that marriage gives 
any more sanction to large weddings now-a-days, 
than it would have done had it been done at any 
other time. I see nothing in it only this, — the time 
was then fully come that Christ was to be made 
manifest to the world by miracles, and this w T as a 
suitable time; for he was one of the guests, and there 
was a large company, whereby he might appear in a 
conspicuous manner, and it would be a plentiful proof 
of the fact, that the world of mankind might be left 
without excuse. 

Although this has been my settled opinion for 
many years, even before I was married; yet there 
was a large collection of Friends and others that 
came home with us, and great preparations were 
made, but I believe my wife and I were clear of it, 
and tried what we could not to have it so: the force 
of custom was so strong with our parents that they 
could not he prevailed upon to omit making prepa- 
rations, even at both houses: which was a burden 
to me and my wife. It seemed rather a day of sor- 
row than a day of rejoicing, by reason of the multi- 
tude of people, and some vain ones too: that on the 
whole, there was hardly weight sufficient to bear 
down the lightness. 

I do not mention this in any wise to cast reflec- 
tions on our parents; for I believe they were con- 
cerned for us, and wanted to do for us so that we 
should be profited in the best things by our coming 
together. But I have often thought, if friends could 
be sensible of the exercise these gatherings at mar- 
riages bring on many Friends, they would, for the 



10 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

love they have for their friends, entirely omit ma- 
king preparations at such times more than at other 
times. 

Thus we were joined in marriage in Friends' 
meeting held at Oswego, the 26th of the 1st month, 
1769, and began together a world full of troubles, 
some share of which we took upon us even the first 
day of our marriage. For although our nuptial joys 
were in their prime at that day, yet our minds were 
brought into such an exercise on account of the in- 
consistent conduct of some of the guests, that the 
bitter seemed to devour the relish of the sweet. 

After some months we went to keeping house in 
a new log house that I had built for that purpose on 
my father's land, expecting to settle there for life. 
We were well suited for a considerable time, enjoy- 
ing one another's company and fellowship in perfect 
peace and tranquillity. Meantime my mind was ex- 
ercised in a religious line, in different ways; for by 
this time I had become more settled, and stronger 
in the faith; and sometimes a necessity was laid on 
me to bear testimony in my conduct to the truth of 
what I believed to be right; an instance of which 
was this — A little before I was married, I got me 
and my intended wife each of us a curious pair of 
brass shoe buckles — no Friends then that I knew of 
but what allowed of wearing plain buckles, and these 
were plain but curiously made; so I put mine in my 
shoes and wore them a few times; but I became un- 
easy about them and began to consider how buckles 
were first introduced, and it appeared with a good 
degree of clearness, that it was a spirit of pride that 
first invented them — and although I had no proof 
of this, only the testimony of what I took to be 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 11 

truth in my own heart, yet I fully believed it; and I 
thought that wearing them was in itself maintaining 
and cherishing that same root of pride, and therefore 
I could not feel easy to wear them any longer: so 
took them out and put in strings, which I have made 
use of ever since, and have found perfect peace in it. 
Another, something like it, was thus: I thought, ac- 
cording to custom, I must have a pair of gloves to 
be married in, and accordingly bought a pair for that 
purpose; but before the time came, I was made to 
see that it was nothing but a superstitious custom; 
therefore I never put them on my hands for that 
purpose; but, it being a very cold day, I took a pair 
of coarse yarn mittens, which were much more warm 
and convenient. Such things may seem small mat- 
ters to some; but as they concerned my true peace, 
I found myself under a necessity to be obedient, not 
despising the day of small things. 

Now about this time, or not long after, the mys- 
tery concerning the ministry, before hinted at, was 
opened to me, and it was effected in a dream. One 
night as I lay in bed, I thought I was at our meet- 
ing, sitting in my usual seat, and felt a concern on my 
mind to speak in public. I felt as I had never done 
before; and there seemed such an undeniable evi- 
dence in my heart that it was my duty to stand on 
my feet, take off my hat, and declare certain words 
to the people, that I was fully convinced, if I omit- 
ted it, I should be deeply condemned for it. So I 
thought I stood up and began to declare; and as I 
spoke 1 felt an increase of concern and of utterance, 
so that I spoke very powerfully for some time; which 
seemed to bring a great solemnity over the meeting, 
and a public Friend that sat in the high seat, took 



12 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

me by the hand and led me up into the gallery while 
I still spoke to them. Soon after, the energy of my 
spirit grew so strong, that the exercise of my mind 
awaked me. So that now I was fully satisfied as to 
that matter: for I thought that if ever I should have 
such a feeling and evidence in a meeting as I felt in 
my dream, it would be my duty to preach ; for I be- 
lieved this to be preaching the gospel. From this 
time some secret thoughts would at times pass my 
mind, that some time I might be called to publish the 
gospel. This brought a great dread over me, and I 
tried to persuade myself that I was entirely unequal 
to the task. Thus I laboured along in the deeps, and 
attended our meetings, sometimes feeling very poor 
and lifeless, and then again I received some strength, 
and sometimes great encouragement, though it was 
through hard labour. One day I had been to meet- 
ing, and after I came home thinking of my exercises, 
I wrote as follows: 

How have I been led to day as it were in the wil- 
derness until I was an hungered and thirsty, and al- 
most spent with poverty of spirit! Oh! how did I 
cry unto the Lord for strength, being sincere in de- 
siring help of him that is able to give strength: and 
my desires were granted. For as I lifted up my 
eyes, behold the heavenly manna was given me to 
eat, and the waters of life were poured out from the 
rock that Israel drank of in days of old; which was 
like the balm of Gilead, or like the ointment that ran 
down Aaron's beard, even to the hem of his garment. 
Thus have I met with the Lord, who was like heal- 
ing balsam to my soul. 

After this, being at a meeting at Oswego, I felt a 
motion on my mind to declare a sentence or two in 



JOURNAL OP RUFUS HALL. 13 

a public way; but the cross in my nature was against 
such a work, and a great struggle I had in me be- 
tween doing and omitting, and I did not give up to 
the requirings of Truth. A sense of my unfaithful- 
ness stuck close to me for several days, by which a 
greater willingness was wrought in my mind, and I 
came to a conclusion that if ever I felt the like mo- 
tion again I would endeavour to give up to it, let 
the consequence be what it might. After this con- 
clusion I felt more easy. 

It was several weeks after this before I was tried 
in that way again; when I felt as great unwillingness 
to give up as before; but dreading the consequence 
of disobedience, I at last gave up in great fear, and 
with dread on my mind, spoke these words, or to 
this import, " It is weightily on my mind to say, it 
is not by might nor yet by power, but it is by my 
spirit, saith the Lord." I expected to say something 
more by way of explaining the sentence; but a damp 
came over me as I stood, and I thought it was bet- 
ter to sit down short of what was before me than to 
speak without perfect clearness: so I sat down, and 
the meeting seemed to be in a solemn pause for some 
time. I felt great peace of mind all that day. The 
way became more easy with me afterwards, in regard 
to my public appearances, tho' still under the cross; 
and it is even so to this day, although I am now near- 
ly fifty-four years of age, and have been more or less 
exercised in that way by turns ever since. 

Now outward trials began to surround us. My 

oldest child, a fine promising daughter, about the age 

of two years and eight months, was taken with fits, 

which proved to be the falling sickness, and ruined 

2 



14 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

her, so that she was helpless almost all the time, till 
she was nearly nineteen years old, when she died. 

Another circumstance was discovered about this 
time: Lfound my father was so much in debt, that 
he must unavoidably sell his land to pay his debts, 
and there was no hopes of any thing being left for 
me, as I had expected; so that I should be under a 
necessity of moving somewhere, and had no money 
to settle myself with ; which was very alarming, being 
low in the world, and neither of our parents able to 
help us. After some time, I resolved to go to Sara- 
toga, a new settlement in Albany county. So in the 
fall of the year, I think in 1773, with the advice of 
some of my friends, I went to Saratoga, and bought 
the farm I now live on; which is now Easton, instead 
of Saratoga. In doing this I run myself above ninety 
pounds in debt. I went home and hired thirty pounds 
to make a payment — having a crop in the ground at 
Oswego, sufficient if it did well to answer the hired 
money. The next summer I went and put in a small 
crop on my new farm. It was all wilderness when 
I bought it, and I struck the first stroke with my own 
hands ihat was ever struck with a view of clearing 
it. I built a little log house on it, and went home 
and prepared for moving my family. 

While this matter was coming about, another ex- 
ercising circumstance opened in view, which was the 
unhappy war between England and America. So 
that we were likely to be surrounded with difficulties, 
having a poor helpless child in our family, being in 
debt, and the expected distress of a tedious war; and 
what was more, there was no meeting of Friends 
nearer than East Hoosack, which was forty miles — 
the monthly meeting one hundred and ten miles, and 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 15 

the Quarterly meeting, half the time one hundred and 
twenty, and the other half one hundred and seventy 
miles: so that we were likely to have very little 
benefit of meetings. But it happened about the time 
I bought there, that several Friends from Nantucket 
and Dartmouth came and bought also, so that by the 
time I moved my family, there were about seven 
families that were members of society; and Provi- 
dence so ordered it that we soon had a meeting 
amongst us, which was held at the house of Zebulon 
Hoxsie, my brother-in-law. 

I got here with my family the 26th of the 1st mo. 
1775. And now we had to encounter with the many 
difficulties of settling in a new country, having an 
increasing family, — being in debt, and a terrible war 
at hand; for the first battle in the continental war 
was fought the summer after we moved. So when 
we looked at outward circumstances, things appeared 
very gloomy. , 

In the 5th month, my father and mother, sister 
and brother, moved here also, into my house. So 
we went to work for our living, and attended our 
little meeting, which was held some time in proba- 
tion, but after a while it was settled by the monthly 
meeting. Then we built a log meeting-house, and 
the meeting increased fast by Friends moving from 
other parts. Our monthly and Quarterly meetings 
were at a great distance, and it usually fell to my 
lot to attend them twice, and sometimes three times 
in a year; which was no small task under the cir- 
cumstances I was in; for by this time Friends were 
fined for their non-conformity to the warriors' re- 
quirings, and had their goods and stock distrained 
from them greatly to their damage. 



16 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

In the year 1777, the war increased to a great de- 
gree. By two remarkable dreams which I had this 
summer, I thought I was apprized of some great trials 
that were coming. Not long after, we had the news 
that the English men-of-war were endeavouring to 
make their way from New York up Hudson river, 
and that a large army was marching under general 
Burgoyne from Quebec, in order to come down the 
river so as to meet and join the men-of-war, and by 
that means cut the country in two, and so overcome 
it; which put the people in a great consternation; 
and it actually proved to be so, so far as it was suf- 
fered by the over-ruling power; for general Burgoyne 
made a rapid march towards us, so that by midsum- 
mer he was within thirty miles of us to the north- 
ward, and the men-of-war had come up the river 
within about seventy or eighty miles. This was 
about the beginning of wheat harvest. Then did 
confusion appear in almost every face; and what 
made it more so, was, it was reported and was true, 
that general Burgoyne had many hundreds of the 
Indian natives; which struck a very great dread on 
the people in every place, and they prepared to flee 
as fast as possible, so that within four or five days 
after the army to the northward came within thirty 
miles of us, the people in our quarter were mostly 
gone, some one way and some another, taking with 
them all that they could, which yet was but little. 
They went in haste, some in wagons, others on horse- 
back, and others again on sledges on the bare ground, 
other some on trucks or carriages that run on a sort 
of wheels made with the end of a large log sawed 
off and holes made through the middle and put on 
axletrees — and many more fled away on foot as fast 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 17 

as they could, both men, women and children — all 
obliged to leave the greater part of their substance as 
to a living behind them, at the mercy of the enemy. 

Now Burgoyne came down within five or six miles 
of my house and made a stand, and the army lay 
within a few miles of us for several months, so that 
they, and the continental army, before the campaign 
was broken up, destroyed all that was left by the 
inhabitants and swept all clean before them. There 
were about ten or a dozen Friends' families and some 
few others, that stayed and stood the storm through, 
and we all suffered more or less by being plundered 
by both parties: for this little remnant of us lived 
on what the warriors called hunting ground; that is, 
partly between the two armies of general Gates and 
general Burgoyne. Although they plundered us, 
they did no great hurt to our persons, some few in- 
stances excepted. 

Not long after the English army made their stand 
here, the men-of-war that had got as far up the river 
as Esopus, went back again, and general Gates march- 
ed his army in order to attack the English, and came 
to Stillwater and made a stand there; so that the two 
opposite armies were so near one another that some 
of their encampments were within two miles of 
each other: and they lay in this sort two months or 
more, before they came to a general engagement. — - 
All this time, we were in a deplorable situation; for 
their scouting parties on both sides were almost every 
day at, or in sight of some of our houses, and we 
often heard them firing upon one another; but the 
skulking Indians seemed to strike the greatest dread, 
the more so because we could not converse with them : 
2* 



18 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

but they did not do so much damage by far, as to 
plundering, as our own people did. 

One day the Indians came to our meeting just as 
it was breaking up; but they offered no violence: 
their warlike appearance was very shocking, being 
equipped with their guns, tomahawks and scalping 
knives: they had a prisoner and one green scalp taken 
from a person they had killed but a few hours be- 
fore: but they went away without doing any violence. 
To give a relation of every trying circumstance that 
we were afflicted with this summer, 1777, would fill 
a volume; suffice it to say, things continued in this 
sort till about the middle of the 10th month, when 
the two armies came to a general battle, which began 
in the morning, the sun about two or three hours 
high, and lasted without any cessation till night; and 
in the night there was a continual roar of small arms, 
like the roaring of waters running down great falls 
and dashing against the rocks, besides hundreds of 
cannon were fired also. The wind being high that 
day, and to the westward, we could hear it very per- 
fectly, and even the smell of powder was perceivable. 
It was an awful day indeed, to consider of the great 
slaughter that must be made, and spilling of human 
blood, and all done by those that call themselves 
christians! — as opposite to a christian spirit, and to 
the very nature of the gospel dispensation, as dark- 
ness is to light. What a deplorable state is man- 
kind sunk into, that the eye of the mind should be- 
came so darkened that they will endeavour to recon- 
cile the great command to " love your enemies, do 
good to them that hate you and despitefully use you," 
with Hate them, kill and destroy them all that you 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 19 

can! Is it not even a shame to the very name of a 
christian? 

Although Friends suffered much in their estates 
in this time of trouble, yet they suffered little bodi- 
ly punishment, except that some few were cast into 
prison upon supposition of being disaffected persons; 
but they were not detained long. 

Thus this storm of confusion ended; forBurgoyne 
was beaten, and was made willing in a few days to 
capitulate, and lay down his arms, and all dispersed, 
and we were favoured again with a sort of a calm. 
Although the war did not end till some years after, 
yet it did not rise to any great height afterwards in 
these parts. 

I have dwelt longer on this unpleasant subject of 
the troubles in the war, because there hath been a 
generation born and grown to be men and women 
since, that do not know the afflictions of their pa- 
rents in those times; and by reading these lines, they 
may have some idea, at least, of what their forefa- 
thers have undergone for their sakes, and for the sake 
of their testimony to the Truth, — that they may be 
encouraged to maintain the like testimony in their 
day and time; as it is not unlikely that some of 
them may have as great trials as we had, and may be 
greater. But I firmly believe the day is approaching 
that the lamb and the lion shall lie down together in 
peace; and the people shall beat their swords into 
ploughshares, and their spears into pruning hooks, 
and they shall learn war no more — for there will be 
no need of it — all men shall be at peace: then will 
universal love and good will subsist amongst man- 
kind in general. But there is a very great work to 
be done for and in man, before this will come to pass. 



20 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

I believe it will be brought about through the faithful 
labours and suffering of those that are enlightened 
with the day-spring from on high, and these dark 
fighters and warriors shall have no part nor lot in 
the work. 

Now I believed I had seen the end of my second 
dream; for the fight between the two armies was on 
the spot of ground that appeared in my said dream. 
There were many hundreds, if not thousands, slain, 
and many of them were not buried, or at least so 
poorly that their legs and arms were out of ground, 
and some quite naked, who lay and stank, — so that 
they were food for the crows and other ravenous 
birds and beasts. 

I shall now return to other matters. After our 
troubles were somewhat over, Friends were so en- 
couraged that they came and settled in these parts so 
fast, that in a short time we rose from a little meet- 
ing to a preparative, and soon to a monthly meeting, 
held circularly at East Hoosack and Saratoga, forty 
miles distant: a meeting was also held on probation at 
Danby, forty miles northward of us. We had to attend 
monthly meeting every two months, forty miles — 
sometimes to attend meeting at Danby, forty miles — 
and once in three months to attend the Quarterly 
meeting at Oblong and Purchase; one of them one 
hundred and twenty, and the other one hundred and 
eighty miles from Saratoga. So that some of us were 
obliged to be from home a great deal of our time in 
attending meetings, — of which service the greatest 
part fell on my brother-in-law, Zebulon Hoxsie and 
myself. Yet, through the goodness of God, in all our 
difficulties and trials, we never wanted bread, nor 
suffered much for any necessary of life. But we were 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 21 

obliged to be very industrious when at home, work- 
ing early and late for the support of our families. 

Friends increased fast in number in these north- 
ern countries, and things looked prosperous in the 
main; but I was not without some doubts at times, 
for I was sixty pounds in debt for my land, and by 
reason of the troublesome times, there was no like- 
lihood of paying it soon, and the interest going on; 
so that about the year 1780, I fell under discourage- 
ment for fear that by not paying my debt so soon as 
it was wanted I should bring a scandal on the blessed 
Truth — and I came to a conclusion to sell my land 
if I could find a chance to better my circumstances. 
On hearing of land about thirty miles to the west- 
ward, at a place called Galway, that was to be let out 
on long leases, my brother and I with a number of 
others went to see the land; but it appeared to be so 
broken, and so heavy timbered, that we concluded 
not to take it up; so we came home: and not long 
after I sold fifty acres of my land, and gained so 
much by the sale that it set me clear of debt, for 
which my very soul did rejoice. I had remaining 
about eighty acres of land, and it looked likely I 
might shortly need more, for my family increased 
fast, and we had now six sons, good hardy boys; but 
I felt willing to trust that hand for future sustenance 
that had sustained us to this day. Although my sons 
have been partly necessitated to learn trades; yet 
they have been successful in their calling, and ap- 
pear likely to do well as to a living. 1 think there 
is much more satisfaction in seeing them industrious 
and prudent in getting an estate for themselves by 
their labour, than there is for parents to be much 
concerned to leave a great estate for their children 



22 JOURNAL OF RTIFTTS HALL. 

who do not know the getting of it. How many mis- 
steps have I seen of this nature! Some entering in- 
to branches of great trade in order to help their chil- 
dren, which has nevertheless been a certain means 
of ruining both parents and children. The parents 
have thereby involved themselves so as to become 
insolvent, and the children have proved prodigals, 
greatly to the shame of society and their own irre- 
parable loss. Others again, in good circumstances, 
have sold their small but convenient farms, and gone 
back in the woods, and bought new lands, on pur- 
pose that they might give each of their sons or chil- 
dren a good large farm; and thereby have put them- 
selves in old age under many difficulties of various 
kinds, and their children have lost ground in the 
best things by being taken away remote from meet- 
ings. 

Well, but some will say, surely it is right that 
some should trade, for trade is really useful to the 
community: and it is right also to cultivate the new 
countries, as it encourages industry and makes room 
for the next generation. I answer, these arguments 
are all good in their places; but then, let the young 
man that hath little in the world — that hath good 
learning and good credit, and is capable, but yet 
weakly in constitution, trade; — and the hardy, well 
young man, go into the woods, and get him a farm 
sufficient to bring up a family; and let him go to 
work and pay for it. Such industrious, prudent peo- 
ple seldom fail of succeeding. This method being 
pursued, there would be no more complaints of old 
men becoming bankrupts and insolvent, or their 
children prodigals; or old men being benumbed in 
their limbs and senses by hard labour on new land 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 23 

for their children; but all things of that nature would 
work in their proper channel. The trader would 
trade, because he had no other way to get his living; 
and the farmer would go into the woods to live be- 
cause of necessity; and if he got no more land than 
what he could occupy in the way of farming, it 
would remove another great burden that many lie 
under; and that is, the oppression of so much specu- 
lation which raises the price of new lands. It 
would become easy for a young man to settle in the 
new countries; yea, I plainly see while I am penning 
these observations, a long train of advantages that 
would arise by these hints being observed in gener- 
al. But suffice it to say, that it looks clear to me that 
mankind in general would be much happier both in 
this life and in that which is to come. 

After I got released from my discouragements, I 
attended our monthly and Quarterly meetings with 
diligence, and Friends increased in these northern 
parts very fast. I was often from home on Truth's ac- 
count — to visit meetings that were held under com- 
mittees, and to visit friendly people that had request- 
ed the care of Friends; — for there were many that 
became convinced of Friends' principles and joined 
in society with them: and it became necessary to 
set up meetings in many places where meetings had 
not been held before: so that at this day, 1798, there 
are in these northern countries, a Quarterly meeting 
at Easton (formerly Saratoga) and four monthly 
meetings; East Hoosack, Easton, Saratoga on the 
west side of the river, and Danby in Vermont. And 
in the compass of these monthly meetings, are eleven 
settled meetings for worship, besides divers that are 
held in a state of probation: the whole containing 



24 JOURNAL OP RUFUS HALL. 

about three hundred families and parts of families of 
members. 

I have made this computation with a view to set 
forth the growth of Truth in this land; and although 
it hath been my lot to spend abundance of my time 
these twenty years and more in attending monthly, 
Quarterly and Yearly meetings — and in visiting the 
families of almost the whole Quarterly meeting, and 
also in visiting requesters, which required journeys 
of forty, eighty, a hundred, and even two hundred 
miles; yet when I take a view of my labours, I can- 
not conceive that I have been of any great service 
toward the propagation of Truth; but it rather seems 
to me, if there hath been any great service in gath- 
ering the people into the true sheep fold, it must be 
imputed to other Friends. Our friend Robert Nes- 
bit, deceased, hath been of eminent service in this 
work; he was a man of sound judgment, quick in ap- 
prehension, zealous for the cause of Truth, sharp in 
his testimony against sin and wickedness, yet very 
tender to those that were under trials and afflictions 
of any kind: so that I think at some times he might 
be called a son of thunder, and at others a son of con- 
solation. But the Lord hath taken him away in the 
prime of life, and it seems to me his departure is a 
great loss to Friends in these parts — though I have 
no doubt it is his eternal gain. 

On the whole, I conclude, that the work of refor- 
mation and the gathering of Friends in these parts, 
must be imputed to the divine assistance of the invisi- 
ble Power, and not really to any man. 

In the year 1792, an exercise came upon me which 
was very trying: I had drawings on my mind to vis- 
it Friends in New England — and the burden grew 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 25 

so heavy that I could have no peace, and then I 
opened it to some Friends, who encouraged me in 
it. So I laid it before our monthly meeting and ob- 
tained their certificate in the forepart of the year 
1793 — and it was endorsed at our Quarterly meet- 
ing at the Nine Partners in the spring following. 

About the 12th of the 8th month, I set out from 
home in company with my brother-in-law Zebulon 
Hoxsie — we went pretty cheerfully on to the Nine 
Partners in two days, and attended the Quarterly 
meeting — spent one day at my wife's father's, then 
went to the Branch on the Oblong, and were at their 
first-day meeting. 20th. We set out for Hopkinton, 
through Connecticut, which was a lonesome travel 
of three days' journey among the Presbyterians: but 
at last we arrived among Friends at Hopkinton, where 
we appointed a meeting; which was a great trial to 
me. Having never been much concerned in appoint- 
ing meetings before, I had many thoughts what might 
be the event of so weighty a matter. But seeing no 
way to avoid it without shrinking from what appear- 
ed to be my duty, I ventured to proceed; and when 
meeting time drew near the weight if it grew heavy, 
and I let in the reasoner in this sort: what if thou 
should be silent to-day, how wilt thou fare, seeing 
thou art a stranger here in these parts, and it is likely 
there will be divers that will attend who are not mem- 
bers amongst Friends, and they will be disappointed 
and dissatisfied, and call thee a fool or a crazy man ! 
At best thy gift is but small: perhaps if thou says 
any thing, it will hardly give satisfaction; for thou 
knowest when travelling Friends appoint meetings, 
the people that attend generally expect a great deal 
of preaching. Such like reasonings had like to have 
3 



26 JOURNAL OF RITFUS HtALL. 

overcome my faith. But in the height of these cogi- 
tations, 1 rose up, left the house where I was and be- 
took myself to the fields, and so into the woods out 
of the sight of all men that I knew of, and there I 
poured out my spirit before the Lord in great hu- 
mility to this purpose: Lord, thou knowest the in- 
tegrity of my heart — thou knowest it was not in my 
own will that I undertook this journey; but it was 
in obedience to what thou gavest me to believe was 
a duty required of me. Thou knowest I have put 
my trust in thee, believing thou wouldst not require 
any thing without giving ability to perform the same. 
Now therefore, as I have hitherto trusted in thee 
alone, I beseech thee not to leave me in this trial: 
for it is in thy power to sanctify my labour to thy 
honour and praise, whether it be to speak in public, 
little or much, or in being silent. And now I am 
resolved in that little faith thou hast given me, to 
attend the meeting, and there give all up into thy 
hand; for thou art best able to order it to thy hon- 
our, and that is all 1 seek. I matter not what men 
shall say of me — only vouchsafe to give me a sense 
of thy good presence, so that I may not sink under 
the weight of thy work. And the Lord was merci- 
fully pleased to give me a little strength, so that I 
went to the meeting, which was laborious in the 
forepart, but ended to good satisfaction. 

Next day we had a meeting at Westerly — an old 
decayed meeting and meeting-house; but it proved 
a good meeting to me, notwithstanding a right re- 
ligious concern amongst the few Friends in that place 
was, I think, at a low ebb. We then were at Rich- 
mond-town on first-day, and next day at the monthly 
meeting at South Kingston; both of which were labo- 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 21 

rious times, occasioned by a sense of the want of a 
living concern for the good of our Zion. Next we 
had a meeting at South Kingston, lower house, where 
the life of religion seemed very low, which made 
hard labour at first; but afterwards under a sense of 
some tender desires amongst the youth, I was favour- 
ed to detect the one and encourage the other. 

28th. At Greenwich preparative meeting — which 
appeared to be in a low situation as to the life of re- 
ligion, and a great want of living concern among 
them. Next day, at Cranston — also a low time; yet 
there are a few at that place that are well concerned. 
Then had a meeting at Foster, to some satisfaction. 
Here I was straitened in breaking up the meeting; 
an aged, plain-looking man sat next to me, and I 
could not feel a perfect freedom to give him my 
hand; yet I did it. I was afterwards told he was 
not a member among Friends, but sat in the foremost 
seat and frequently had the care of breaking up the 
meeting. So then I did not wonder at my feelings 
about him, and could have wished I had kept closer 
to them. However, we advised Friends to be more 
faithful in maintaining order in their meetings — to 
hold them more in the power of Truth, and not suf- 
fer one that was not in full unity to have the order- 
ing or breaking them up. On the 31st, we had a 
good meeting at Scituate. The 1st of 9th month, 
and first of the week, we were at Providence — this 
meeting in the forenoon I thought was very lifeless, 
but it was some better in the afternoon. Next day, 
we were at Cranston monthly meeting — then rode 
to uncle John Green's at the Forge, and stayed all 
night with our aged uncle and aunt, who seemed very 
glad of our company. 



28 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

We then rode to Joseph Green's on Canonicut 
island: the family being relations were very glad to 
see us: and we attended their meeting to good satis- 
faction. Lodged at Joseph Green's, whose kindness 
to us I believe will not be easily forgotten. Their 
son Joseph and daughter Anne seemed as though they 
could not do too much. And here I may say, we 
found a whole family of honest hearted, plain Friends; 
which I think was the first of the like kind that we 
have met with since we came into New England: all 
which made our visit on this island very comfortable. 

Crossing the ferry to Newport on Rhode Island, 
we were at an adjournment of their monthly meet- 
ing, and went to see our very aged uncle, Ladowick 
Hoxsie, who appeared to be in low circumstances 
of life, health and strength, and almost a child again 
through old age — so we left some money in the care 
of our friend Thomas Robinson, to keep him from 
suffering as far as that would go, and took our leave, 
never expecting to see him again. We then went 
to Portsmouth, and next day had a meeting at Tiver- 
ton. An old straggling traveller that appeared to be 
hardly in his right mind, and very likely had been 
a teacher in some society and broke, came to the 
meeting and made much disturbance. After sleeping 
and snoring, he awaked and began to speak by way 
of preaching, and went on at a high rate. I expect- 
ed some Friend would silence him; but none did; 
till, at length, fearing he would ruin the solemnity 
of the meeting, I requested him to make as short of 
it as he could. He instantly took his seat, and soon 
appeared to be asleep again. So I had an opportu- 
nity to relieve my mind. But the old man waked 
again and began to speak in commendation of what 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 29 

had been delivered, more than 1 was willing to hear; 
so I broke up the meeting, and the people went out 
of the house while he was speaking, and left him till 
the last. I thought I had cause to be thankful for 
that day's work — having been favoured several ways. 

We spent a day at Little Compton, visiting some 
families; but it seemed to be dull work: so we went 
in company with our friend Jeremiah Austin, to 
Westport, and had a favoured meeting there — rested 
one day at Lovet Tripp's, writing letters home — 
then had a meeting at Centre, and were at Aponegan- 
sett preparative meeting. Friends here seemed to 
be in an easy way of doing business, so that we had 
some service amongst them — and our labour appear- 
ed to be kindly received, and Friends generally glad 
we were there. Then went to Newtown preparative 
meeting; dull also, and very little care taken of dis- 
orderly walkers; so that we had more work to do at 
this place, and were favoured to get through to some 
satisfaction, at least to ourselves. 

We then went to Acoakset and attended their 
monthly meeting, where the life was very low; but 
through Divine favour it ended to satisfaction. Then 
we were at the first-day meeting at Little Compton, 
and the day following, at Aponegansett monthly 
meeting — here the savour of Truth arose into good 
dominion in the public service that I and my friend 
Stephen Buffington had therein; and it was lively in 
transacting the discipline; so that I think I may say, 
it was one of the best meetings we had been at since 
we came to New England. Having been at divers 
that were more or less cloudy, dull seasons to me, 
and now having clear sunshine, it seemed very com- 
fortable, and my heart felt thankful for this great 
3* 



30 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

favour. After meeting we visited Thomas Hicks 
and wife, which I thought was time well spent; they 
being like a father and mother in Israel, and their 
conversation truly strengthening to me. 

Next day we were at Bedford monthly meeting. 
Lodged at our kind friend, William Rotch's — attend- 
ed a small meeting at the head of the river Aceush- 
net, and another at Long Plain. Here are some hope- 
ful, well-concerned Friends, and I trust there will 
be a revival among them — although they have had 
a sifting time, occasioned by a public Friend's being 
disowned, who drew off divers others — but they even 
now are grown weary of their living. 

21st. Had a laborious time at Falmouth; but thro' 
Divine goodness the meeting ended to satisfaction. 
Next day and first of the week, we were at Sand- 
wich — the meeting appeared dull and almost lifeless, 
which made it hard work for me, a stranger that came 
in much at unawares to them; yet I found a neces- 
sity to sound my little trumpet in a close manner 
amongst them, which relieved my mind, if it did no 
good to them. We then rode to Yarmouth, and had 
a meeting there — it seemed to me to be a little poor 
meeting, and few there that appeared to be livingly 
concerned for the prosperity of Zion. 

25th. At the preparative meeting at Pembroke — 
which was small, and low as to the life of religion. 
After which we rode to our friend Thomas Rogers's 
at Marshfield, and stayed two days in that neighbour- 
hood, visiting some families. Before I came here, I 
expected to go from this place to Boston, and to a 
long train of meetings down below or eastward of 
Boston; but finding a stop in my mind as to pursuing 
my journey that way, it became trying to me to find 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 31 

which way to go, or w T hat to do. But endeavouring 
to keep the eye of my mind steadily on the cloud, at 
length it arose off the tabernacle and seemed to go 
toward Dartmouth Quarterly meeting, about fifty 
miles back where we had come from. This was con- 
trary to my expectation; but keeping my eye to the 
opening, it appeared clearer and clearer, until I be- 
came fully convinced of it — and there being several 
days to the time of the Quarterly meeting, we visit- 
ed some families in Hanover, and were at their first- 
day meeting at Pembroke, which I thought was a 
better meeting than the other I was at there — also 
was at an adjournment of their monthly meeting: 
then went to Long Plain, and attended their select 
preparative and monthly meeting of business, which 
was comfortable to me. 

After which we went to Aponegansett, or Dart- 
mouth, and attended the select and Quarterly meet- 
ings, to satisfaction; then rode to Dighton and were 
at their first-day meeting, where my mind was much 
pressed down under a sense of the great inconsisten- 
cy of appearance in the members of the society; 
which occasioned some close labour amongst them 
in a public manner; for I thought there was not much 
danger of exposing those that had exposed themselves 
so much already. After meeting, we rode to Swan- 
zey, and were at their monthly meeting; and next 
day went to Providence and dined at our friend Moses 
Brown's — then went to the Quarterly meeting at 
Smithfield, and attended the meeting of ministers and 
elders, and also the meeting for sufferings: all which 
were greatly to my satisfaction, and I felt thankful 
for the many favours received. 

Having observed the openings of Truth from the 



32 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

first setting out on this journey, as well as observed 
the shuttings thereof from time to time, I was now 
brought to a stand again, having Boston still in view; 
but I could not see my way clear to go that way, and 
being within three days' journey of home, my mind 
was drawn that way also. But feeling in a resigned 
state, all further service in the line of travelling from 
meeting to meeting at this time was taken off me: 
I felt greatly released, and the way homeward look- 
ed like clear sunshine. So we set out, and got home 
the 15th of the 10th month, having been gone a little 
more than two months, and attended about forty-four 
meetings. 

After my return, I had great peace and satisfaction 
for a long time. Sometimes I felt as though I had 
been new made over — and as if I had come out of 
one world of trouble and confusion, into another of 
joy and pleasure; and I enjoyed a good degree of 
heavenly peace and tranquillity. 



Now peace and plenty smiled on our land, and 
Friends increased fast in number as well as in wealth; 
an inclination to become rich in the things of the 
world prevailed; also entering into great trade, — 
running in debt, — laying out great business in the 
farming way, and erecting spacious houses and other 
buildings, now became very common; and striving 
to excel one another in grandeur, took up the time 
of people too much in general, and Friends were not 
clear, — which caused abundance of labour for honest 
Friends, by reason of too many neglecting the attend- 
ing of meetings, and being stupid and drowsy when 
there, and not paying their just debts, and divers 
other things that might be mentioned, occasioned a 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 33 

general visit to Friends. At the Yearly Meeting 
held in New York in the 5th month, 1795, divers 
deficiencies came up in the answers to the Queries, 
and a concern arose that a reformation might take 
place in the society: a committee was appointed to 
attend the several Quarterly meetings, with advice 
that committees be appointed to visit all the families 
of Friends belonging to the Yearly Meeting. Pur- 
suant to this advice, the Quarterly meeting at Easton 
appointed a committee of fourteen Friends, men and 
women, to perform the visit. It appeared to be a 
very laborious task, by reason of the remoteness of 
many of the members, and what was more discour- 
aging, the great inability and weakness of mind in 
those that were appointed to that arduous task. — 
But believing, if it was rightly done, it might be of 
singular service, — there not having been such a vis- 
it since the settlement of Friends in this country, 
now more than twenty years, — the committee took 
courage to attempt the work, and met at Saratoga, 
on the west side of the Hudson; and after sitting to- 
gether to feel our strength renewed, four of us were 
given up to make trial, viz. Nathan Eddy and my- 
self, with Elizabeth Baker and Mary Dean. But 
Nathan Eddy being under a necessity to go home for 
a few days, Elijah French concluded to go with us 
until Nathan joined us. So we set out in great hu- 
mility of mind, and visited some families of that meet- 
ing, — then went to Greenfield and Galway. Here 
Nathan Eddy met us, and we visited a number of 
families, and then returned to the meeting of Sarato- 
ga, and so home; having been out about two weeks, 
and visited forty-nine families, we were much re^ 



34 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

joiced in believing the work was owned by the 
great Master. 

The 19th of the 11th mo. we again proceeded on 
the service at Saratoga, and visited divers families for 
the space of two days. At length we came to where 
a family lived, or rather stayed, in a little smoky hut, 
and not a chair to sit on; so we sat down, some on 
the bed, or such place as they slept on, some on 
tubs, and some on pumpkins, and the small children 
on the floor. After we had sat awhile, Nathan Eddy 
spoke to this import, That he had heard of a heaven 
and a hell, here on the earth; but that this did not 
seem much like heaven, living in this house. Where- 
upon I was much troubled, for fear he was too light 
in his mind; and as I was grieving about it, it came 
livingly into my mind that there was a better heaven 
and a worse hell in this world, than living in a good 
or a bad house; and that was a sedate, peaceful mind, 
or a discontented and quarrelsome one; and was led 
to show the advantage of the one and the disadvan- 
tage of the other: so that before the sitting ended, I 
got over my jealousy for my friend Nathan, believ- 
ing there was a hand of Providence in it; and it 
seemed to learn me not to judge before the time. — 
We were afterwards told, the man of the house was 
a drunken, quarrelsome person, and was sometimes 
abusive to his wife. 

We went on from house to house, sometimes tried 
one way and sometimes another, and yet were pre- 
served to our great admiration; and then set out to 
visit some families that lived scattering and remote 
from the meeting at Saratoga, to which they belong- 
ed, at a place called Newtown, and one in Balltown. 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 35 

We were out at this time eight days, and visited 
twenty-six families. 

22d of 2d mo. 1796, I set out with Mary Dean 
and Elizabeth Baker to visit Friends about Lake 
Champlain, it being about one hundred and fifty 
miles to the furthest settlements. We rode about 
forty miles to our friend Aaron Hill's, w T ho went 
with us the next day; and in two days we got to 
Vergennes, to the house of our friend Thomas Rob- 
inson; and then went on to Peru, where we visited 
several families. Then set out for the Grand Isle, 
or South Hero, and visited all the families on that 
island, which were about nine in number; and we had 
to believe there was a precious seed there, which 
will be preserved as Friends continue in faithful obe- 
dience to known duty. So we left the island, and 
went on the ice up the river Lamoile, about seven 
miles, to Milton, and then set off for Ferrisburg — 
visited some families on the way, and had some ser- 
vice in the monthly meeting at Ferrisburg. Here 
we visited several families, and then went to Monk- 
ton; and having gone through this neighbourhood, 
we set out for Bristol. There we visited two fami- 
lies, being all there were in the place: then attended 
meeting at Ferrisburg, and visited some families, 
which was the last of our labours in that country. 

Now having gone through all the families about 
Lake Champlain, being seventy and more, we were 
at liberty to return home. So we set out the 22nd 
of 3d mo. and in three days and a half we reached 
Samuel Dean's in Queensbury, and next. day came 
home, and felt truly thankful, having been out about 
five w r eeks. 

29th of 8th month. I set out with Nathan Eddy to 



36 JOURNAL OF RUFttS HALL. 

visit the Friends of Queensbury, about thirty miles 
from my house. There Ruth Hull, wife of Daniel, 
and Elizabeth Dean, late Baker, joined our com- 
pany in the service. In some families we had hard 
labour; a worldly spirit having too much place in 
the minds of several Friends, who being so much 
taken up with the cares of this life, could hardly 
find time to attend religious meetings; and by giving 
way to the enemy from time to time, some had be- 
come so blinded that they saw but little necessity of 
attending meetings. Whence other disorders had 
crept into families, and amongst the youth; such as 
going from plainness, which often leads to keeping 
company, and marrying out of the unity of Friends. 

Our women Friends not being well able to travel 
with us so far, we two men went and visited some 
families at a new place called Thurman's patent, and 
then came back to Queensbury and visited several 
other families. We then came home, having been 
gone about twelve days, and visited thirty-one fami- 
lies. 

5th of the 10th month, I set out with my wife's 
sister, Alice Hoxsie, to attend the monthly meeting 
at Danby, and to visit the families of Danby meeting. 
We had in this visit the company of Stephen Rogers 
and Lydia Kelly. Then went to Sharon and Straf- 
ford, and visited the few Friends of those places. — 
We also took a few families on our way homew T ards; 
and were gone about three weeks, having rode two 
hundred miles, besides going from house to house. 

The 5th of the 1st mo., 1797, my friend Nathan 
Eddy and I set out to visit Friends at Pittstown, 
and Reuben Peckham concluded to go with us. We 
were gone from home about a week, and visited 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 37 

twenty and more families. Some little time after, 
my wife and sister Alice, w r ith her husband, Zebulon 
Hoxsie, and myself, visited the families of Friends 
in Cambridge, which took two days, wherein I had 
good Satisfaction in the main; this was in the latter 
part of winter, 1797. In a few months after this, 
Nathan Eddy and I visited the families of Friends 
at White Creek, which took about eight days. The 
Lord preserved us through all, and we returned home 
with great peace of mind. 

After I got through this arduous task of visiting 
families, another great exercise came upon me: I had 
some sense of it at times divers years before; but 
now more powerfully I felt a stream of love to run 
towards Friends, and some of the Baptists, Metho- 
dists and Indians, in the Western Territories, Gen- 
esee, Niagara and Oswegatchie countries. So in due 
time I laid my concern before our monthly meeting, 
and obtained their full concurrence in a certificate for 
that purpose in the 4th month, 1798, and also the 
concurrence of our Quarterly meeting in the 5th mo. 
following. 

But before proceeding on this visit, I had some 
close exercises at and about home. In our meeting 
at Easton, at one time I had hard digging to get down 
to the spring of the waters of life; and my mind was 
borne down under a painful sense of earthly-mind- 
edness. But as I was favoured to continue wrestling 
till the break of day, I witnessed life to spring up to 
my refreshment and renewed encouragement. In 
this state, it was opened to my mind, that " blessed 
are they that hunger and thirst after righteousness; 
for they shall be filled." Not that they may be; for 
the promise is sure, and never fails when the mind 
4 



38 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

is sincere, wrestling and waiting in faith, nothing 
doubting. But it seemed to me that too many in the 
meeting were in a low, languid state of mind, and 
ready to say, " Give us of your oil; for our lamps are 
gone out." 

In the 4th month, I attended the funeral of Eliza- 
beth Cook, daughter of Leonard Cook; and she hav- 
ing been a steady, exemplary young woman, there 
were many of the neighbours and friends attended. 
Our friend, Stephen Buffington, of Aponegansett in 
New England, who had lately recovered from a sick- 
ness which had confined him at Danby all the winter 
past, now coming to Easton, was at this funeral, and 
was remarkably favoured in testimony among us. It 
was indeed a very solemn opportunity, at the close 
of which my soul was bowed in supplication to Al- 
mighty God, that he would carry on his own work, 
as he is all wisdom, power and strength, and seeing 
that without his Divine assistance we poor instru- 
ments can do nothing. 

In the 5th month, as I was returning from our 
meeting, in which our friend Abiel Gifford had an 
encouraging testimony, I fell in company with a wo- 
man Friend whose husband being rather of intempe- 
rate habits had sold his farm, and was about to move 
his family into the new country of Chenango, about 
one hundred and forty miles from this place, and a 
great way from any Friends' meeting. This was a 
very great trial to his wife, who appeared to be a 
sincere-hearted Friend, and I felt much sympathy 
with her in her exercised, afflicted condition; so that 
after parting with her, my mind became greatly ten- 
dered in fervent prayer to God for her preservation 
in the Truth. Under this exercise, I thought I saw 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 39 

in the light, that the Lord would gather a people to 
his praise somewhere not far from where that woman 
Friend was going to settle; and I felt a freedom to 
make this record of my thoughts and the openings 
on my mind concerning the spreading of Truth in 
the western parts of the state of New York, whether 
I ever live to see it or not. 

9th of 6th mo. Having had it on my mind to visit 
the meeting of Friends held at Pittstown, I set out 
in company with my friends, Zebulon Hoxsie and 
John Gilford; and next day attended their meeting. 
It was a low time with me in the fore part; but at 
length a little life arose and gradually increased, so 
that I was favoured to clear myself fully, and to my 
own satisfaction and peace. After this, feeling some 
draft of love to visit some friendly people at a place 
called Petersburg, about nine or ten miles from Pitts- 
town, I gave up in simplicity of heart to go, and was 
accompanied by John Gifford and our friend Simeon 
Brownell. When we got within two or three miles 
of the place, it opened in my mind that it would be 
right to have a public meeting among those friendly 
people, which brought a great weight over me; but 
I said nothing about it till we got to the house of one 
of them; where we were very kindly received. Then 
I told them what had been on my mind for some miles; 
and the man and his wife appeared much rejoiced, 
saying, they believed there would be entire freedom 
among their neighbours to attend such a meeting; 
and that they would do all they could to spread no- 
tice. So we lodged there; and the next d&y had a 
highly favoured meeting among them: in which doc- 
trine flowed with great strength and clearness, much 
to my satisfaction and peace. Blessed be the Lord 



40 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

forever: he is leading me and instructing me accord- 
ing to his good pleasure, to be faithful to small mo- 
tions of life as well as greater discoveries of his Truth. 

6th mo. 12th. In contemplating the many favours 
I have received of latter years, I felt truly thankful 
to the Father of mercies for his gracious dealings 
with me. He hath led me safely through the vari- 
ous dispensations allotted me, and conducted me in 
paths which I knew not; that I might behold his 
power in my preservation, and acknowledge that it 
was all of his mercy and goodness; to whom alone 
the praise is due. 

I also remember a season some years past, when 
the Lord seemed to hide his face from me, and as it 
were to close his ears from hearing my cries. It was 
a time of great poverty of spirit, for about the space 
of three years; in which I was closely tried with a 
state of darkness, stupidity and drowsiness; insomuch 
that sometimes when I came out of meetings, I almost 
came to the conclusion to decline going any more. 
It seemed to me as if the Lord had left me to the 
buffetings of satan, and that he would never more 
favour me with the smiles of his countenance. This 
led me to examine and consider what I had done to 
offend him; but I could not discover any thing in 
particular. So great was my trouble at times, that 
when alone, I have cried out, Lord what have I done 
to offend thee in such a manner that thou shouldst 
thus forsake me? If I perish, Oh! let me perish at 
thy feet. 

But in all this time his preserving power was un- 
derneath and kept me from sinking, though I per- 
ceived it not. There was a something always so 
close to me, that when meeting day came, I felt wil- 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 41 

ling to go again, though perhaps again as closely 
tried as before. Yet there were a few intervals du- 
ring this trying dispensation, when the Divine pres- 
ence unexpectedly broke in upon me and was power- 
fully felt; so that I concluded I was not altogether 
forsaken of the Lord. But although this season of 
fasting in spirit seemed long, yet have I been pre- 
served through all to this day. And now the Lord 
is feeding me daily with spiritual food, by which my 
soul is animated and encouraged to diligence in his 
service, and therein feel a sweet satisfaction as the 
reward of my labours. ye poor, tried souls, give 
not out. There is yet balm in Gilead, which will 
heal all your wounds and sores, as ye stand fast in 
the faith of Jesus Christ. 

14th. Attended our monthly meeting; but it was 
to me a day of much close exercise in relation to 
setting out on my religious visit westward. The 
way not being open for the Friend who had propos- 
ed to go with me as a companion, occasioned a great 
trial to my mind. I seemed to myself like a vessel 
lying in the dock loaded and ready to go to sea, but 
waiting for a convoy, and therefore not fit for any 
service at home. However, as I endeavoured to sub- 
mit to this disappointment, and patiently wait the 
Lord's time, which I have found to be the best time, 
the next morning my friend Matthew Rogers came 
and offered his service to go with me as a companion 
in this journey. After some conversation, I felt quite 
easy to accept his. kind offer, he being well concerned 
and exemplary in his deportment. Being thus en- 
couraged; and after taking a solid opportunity with 
my dear wife and family, I parted with them in great 
tenderness, and we set out on the 16th of the ftfc.h mo. 
4* 



42 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

1798; went on to our friend William Barker's at 
Ballstown, and next day, being first of the week, we 
attended Friends' meeting there; in the latter part 
of which, some life arose and I was favoured in a 
good degree to relieve my mind. 

18th. In company with William Odell, a minister, 
of Ballstown, we attended a meeting appointed at a 
place called Charlton, among a few tender-hearted, 
seeking people; some of whom were Baptists, and 
others had been brought up among the Presbyterians. 
It was a very satisfactory opportunity, in which gos- 
pel doctrines flowed freely towards them, to my ad- 
miration and peace of mind: William Odell also had 
good service there. That evening we came to the 
house of our friend Job Briggs at Duanesburg; and 
next day, had a trying meeting at that place; in which 
the spring of life seemed so much shut up that I had 
to wade as it were in the deeps in answering the 
requirings of the heavenly Master. 20th. Had a 
meeting about six miles north of Duanesburg, which 
proved to be a very satisfactory one. A free flow 
of gospel love attended, in which I laboured to the 
great ease and encouragement of my mind; having 
had a deep trial the day before about appointing a 
meeting at that place: but it ended so well that I was 
strengthened to put by all reasonings, and went on 
to Charlestovvn, parting with William Odell who had 
been truly helpful to me thus far, having a good and 
convincing gift in the ministry in which he laboured 
faithfully while with us. The loss of this dear friend's 
company seemed rather trying to me; but being fully 
sensible that I must not put my trust in man, I said 
in my heart, If the Lord be on our side, whom shall 
we fear? Thus, feeling his owning hand to be with 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 43 

us, we had a meeting in a school-house next day, to 
good satisfaction. 

22nd. We had a meeting in another school-house 
about five miles northward, but the service was some- 
what marred by the late and irregular gathering of 
the people, owing to a want of care in spreading no- 
tice. It is a great pity that people who undertake 
to give notice of such meetings should be so careless 
as not to spread proper and general information. On 
first-day, the 24th, we had a meeting at Sharon, in 
Thomas Almey \s barn : the people being mostly Pres- 
byterians and Baptists, I had to labour in the minis- 
try to convince them of the usefulness of silently 
attending to their own gifts within, of which they 
seemed to be much ignorant. After this meeting, 
which ended to satisfaction, we went to visit a woman 
Friend who lived seven miles from any other mem- 
bers of our society. We found her in a lonesome 
condition, but glad to see us; and after a solid oppor- 
tunity with her and her husband, we returned to 
Thomas Almey's. While here sitting in the house, 
my mind was reduced to a state of great poverty; 
and seeing a book lying near me, I opened it, and 
finding it to be the Journal of John Woolman, I read 
four or five pages: in which I found such encourage- 
ment that I closed the book with joy in my heart, 
and took fresh courage in God. In the afternoon we 
set out for Otego, and lodged at the house of a friend- 
ly man in Cherry Valley, who with his wife enter- 
tained us kindly; yet I felt somewhat uneasy, lest 
they should think we rather crowded on them for 
entertainment, in order to save our money; being 
there among strangers. I told them this was not the 
case; but that I had a concern on my mind to visit 



44 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

the scattered members of our society, as well as some 
other well inclined people in those wilderness lands;, 
and hearing of him, we had thus come to see him; 
which he seemed to take kind: and next morning as 
we sat at breakfast, a solemn covering was brought 
over us, and it proved a good season to all present; 
so that I left them well satisfied with the visit. 

We went on to CooperVtown, where we stopped 
to let our horses rest a little; during which we went 
to see a widow woman with whom we had some se- 
rious discourse concerning the spiritual warfare. Di- 
vine light and life attending, although we were out- 
wardly strangers, we felt the unity of the spirit flow 
freely, and the woman was greatly tendered, though 
quite fashionable in her dress and appearance. Thus 
the Lord opened the way for service unseen by us, 
and carried us through it by his Divine wisdom; 
leading his dependant children safely on in a way 
they knew not: blessed be his name forever. 

26th. We had a meeting at Otego; then went to 
my brother, Green Hall's at Oxford; and after rest- 
ing a few days, we had a large meeting in his barn 
on first-day, considering it was a newly settled place. 
In this meeting I felt much engaged to lay before 
the people the necessity and usefulness of attending 
to the inward Teacher, as being far preferable to any 
outward teaching whatever, and more certain than 
that of ministers, books, or even the scriptures them- 
selves, — the inward Teacher being the only criterion 
to prove them all by. Next day, had another meet- 
ing about six miles westward, near Chenango river; 
it was small, yet I thought was owned by the good 
Master. We then returned to my brothers, and were 
detained several days on account of my companion^ 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 45 

horse not being fit to travel: so I went to work, being 
loth to spend any of my time un profitably. 

7th mo. 6th. We set forward in company with my 
brother Green and his wife about seven miles up the 
Unadilla river, where we had a meeting at Matthew 
Corkin's, a Methodist, in the town of Norwich. It 
was exercising in the fore part, but the Lord was 
pleased to manifest his owning presence toward the 
conclusion; for which I was thankful. My sister 
Lydia Hall returning home, the rest of us went on 
and lodged at the house of a friendly man named 
Young Smith. Next morning we had a tendering 
opportunity in the family, which seemed like a seal 
to my mind that the Lord was with us. So we set 
out with renewed courage, and travelled through very 
bad roads about twenty -four miles further up the river, 
to a place called Brookfield. In this neighbourhood 
I had a prospect of finding several members of our 
society, and was not disappointed. We found a num- 
ber of Friends settled here, and on first-day had a 
considerably large meeting with them and others, in 
Stephen Hoxsie's barn. This opportunity was emi- 
nently owned of the heavenly Master, and my mind 
was livingly opened in setting forth the necessity 
and advantage of attending diligently to the gift of 
Divine grace, as the principal thing to depend on to 
show us the right way for us to walk in, and to unfold 
all Divine mysteries to our minds, needful for us to 
know, as appertaining to our duty towards God; and 
that without this criterion we could not understand 
even the scriptures in a right sense: neither can any 
preach the gospel, nor yet be rightly benefited by 
hearing the gospel preached, without it. These things 
were opened with great clearness and satisfaction to 



46 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

my own mind, arid I believe Truth reigned over all 
that day. The people were very orderly, still and 
attentive, especially while I was declaring the truth 
among them; it may indeed be called a blessed meet- 
ing that will not soon be forgotten. 

At the conclusion I desired those that did own and 
hold themselves to be members of our society, to 
keep their seats, and favour me with an opportunity 
of conference with them. I was not a little surprised 
when I saw the number that remained; and on con- 
ferring with them, found there were more than thirty 
in the neighbourhood who had a right among Friends.. 
Divers of them had lived there some years, and were 
not under the notice of any monthly meeting that 
they knew of. When they removed into that settle- 
ment, it w r as so remote from Friends that they knew 
not what monthly meeting would own them. Their 
situation excited my S3'mpathy; and we gave them 
advice, and wrote a few lines to Hudson monthly 
meeting, it being the nearest, setting forth their case 
as needing brotherly assistance and care. So we 
parted from them in tender love, and travelled thir- 
ty-two miles by way of Paris Hill, Clinton, and 
Stockbridge, to Oneida, an Indian tovvnj where we 
found five Friends (three men and two women) from 
Pennsylvania; the men endeavouring to instruct the 
Indians in husbandry and smithing, and one of the 
women Friends was teaching some of the female In- 
dian children to read, sew, knit, &c. We tarried all 
night with them, sympathizing with and encouraging 
them in their arduous task. Next day we took our 
leave of them and travelled on toward the Genesee 
country, passing through another Indian town; and 
in the evening arrived at an inn near Onondaga, where 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 47 

We lodged. Next morning, the inn-keeper having 
told us there were some of our sort of people lived 
not far off, we went back about a mile and a half to 
see them. The woman was a member, and I thought 
a valuable one, the husband not, though a tender, 
sincere man: both of them were very kind to us; 
and I concluded to have a meeting there next day; 
which was accordingly held, being chiefly composed 
of women, it being a very busy time among the men, 
though a number were present. The Lord's pres^ 
ence was felt, and as I was declaring the Truth to 
them, I was led to speak of the convictions that 
strike the mind when any one puts forth a hand to 
steal, also to set forth the heinous naturie of such an 
act. As I dwelt on this subject, I noticed that sev- 
eral appeared to be so struck as to hang down their 
heads. This gave me some uneasiness lest they should 
suppose I was judging them as being addicted to 
thievery: so to obviate that thought, I told them that 
the same light which showed them it was wrong to 
steal, would, if faithfully followed and obeyed, lead 
them into all truth; which was the subject then be- 
fore me. After meeting, I was told that a man was 
there, who had been convicted of stealing, and con- 
fessed it a few days before; and that was the reason 
of what I observed, as the man sat very near me. — 
So it appeared that my testimony was like a two- 
edged sword, cutting both ways; blessed be the Lord 
for all his wonderful favours to a poor instrument in 
his hand: and let all the glory be ascribed to him 
forever and ever. 

13th. We left our friends Phineas Tyler and 
wife, in a tender state of mind, and travelled toward 
the Genesee country. Next day we came to my 



48 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

cousin John Green's, and visited several families in 
the neighbourhood; and the day following went on 
our journey, till we came to the remarkable sulphur 
springs, where we stopped and viewed these won- 
derful w r orks of nature. Here we observed several 
large springs near together, which send forth their 
waters out of the bowels of the earth; and as they 
run down the hill and rocks, collecting in a stream 
below, much of the water evaporates, leaving the 
sulphur in such quantities that cart loads might be 
gathered. A great portion of this appears to be genu- 
ine brimstone, which may be used for such pur- 
poses as it is needed. After we had satisfied our 
curiosity in seeing this wonderful work of Divine 
Providence, we went on to Nathan Comstock's in 
the town of Farmington, in which Friends mostly 
reside, and lodged there. 

16th. On our way to see our friend Abraham 
Lapham, passing by a house I felt a motion to go 
in, which I mentioned to my companion. We went 
in and found two women and some small children, 
with whom we sat down in silence, till my mind 
was Divinely favoured to speak of such things as 
arose; and which they seemed to receive with seri- 
ousness; so we parted with them in tenderness, and 
went to Palmyra to lodge at Abraham Lapham's. 
Next day we visited Caleb Macomber and wife, — 
then Jeremiah Smith and family; and on the 19th 
attended their meeting, which was on the whole a 
favoured opportunity. Next day we were at an ap- 
pointed meeting about seven miles from Farming- 
ton, among the Methodists and Baptists. In this 
meeting I was engaged in gospel labour in such a 
remarkable flow of love towards the people, that I 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 49 

was under some difficulty to keep steadily on the 
right ground in my communication. We afterwards 
visited several families of Friends, and again attend- 
ed the meeting at Nathan Comstock's, which was a 
very trying season. 1 laboured among them in a close, 
searching manner, and felt peace in the discharge of 
my duty. We then visited some other families, and 
had an opportunity with a large number of young 
and some elderly people, wherein the life flowed 
freely in counsel towards them. In the night fol- 
lowing I awoke, and a concern revived which I had 
felt towards a young woman whom I saw some days 
before at a Friend's house. I had expected to leave 
the settlement in the morning; which brought on a 
close exercise lest I should go away leaving some- 
thing undone that I ought to have done. So when 
morning came, way opened for me to write her a few 
lines, which gave me ease, so that I felt perfectly 
clear to leave the Genesee settlement; and we pur- 
sued our journey towards Buffalo creek, about thirty- 
eight miles. Lodged at an ordinary, and set out next 
morning to go through the woods about thirty-two 
miles, to a town called Tonnewanto. After we had 
got about one-third of the way through the wilder- 
ness, it began to thunder and rain, which continued 
about four hours; during which we travelled through 
divers swamps and low grounds till we were exceed- 
ing wet and muddy: yet we were favoured to reach 
the Indian town in safety, by about two hours sun; 
where many of the Indians came out of their wig- 
wams to look at us, and seemed good natured. They 
kindly showed us the way to a sort of an inn kept 
by a Frenchman, where we lodged: but the company 
of travellers there were very profane, and worse than 
5 



50 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

the Indians, who were very civil, and came in to see 
us, but I could not converse with them, except by- 
signs, and these I was not certain they understood. 

25th. Set out and travelled near thirty miles thro' 
the uninhabited wilderness (although we met with 
several Indians who appeared glad to see us) till we 
came to a ferry at the outlet of lake Erie. In cross- 
ing this ferry, we asked the boatman if he could tell 
us where any of our friends lived on the west side 
of the lake. He directed us to x\braham Webster's, 
about five miles, where we arrived in good season, 
and felt truly thankful that we were again among 
our friends after three days' journey through the 
dreary wilderness. After resting one day, we pro- 
ceeded to visit a number of families in the settle- 
ment; and had a remarkably solid and satisfactory 
opportunity in the family of a friendly man, named 
Adam Burwell. The Divine presence did so evi- 
dently favour us all that tears of joy, as well as coun- 
sel flowed freely to our great encouragement and 
strength. Thanks be to the Lord forever, for his 
wonderful love and mercy. So we parted in much 
tenderness and with tears, and came to the house of a 
Friend, where we lodged: but it was a trying night 
to me. Before we came here, we had given out word 
for a public meeting at a Friend's house; but now we 
were informed of much uneasiness that appeared be- 
tween said Friend and his neighbours, and great dis- 
unity among Friends in this settlement. This grieved 
me so much that I was almost ready to repent that 
I had appointed the meeting, lest I might be the 
means of strengthening them in something that was 
wrong; so great was my exercise that I slept but lit- 
tle that night Next morning, the 28th, we visited 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 51 

another Friend and his family at Point Ebeno, where 
we heard something of the same complaint. Thence 
to another Friend's family, where the complaint of 
the other party was detailed to us in like manner. — 
This still increased my exercise, and my load of grief, 
though I was favoured with renewed strength to bear 
up under it. 

29th. We attended said meeting which was large, 
many of the neighbours coming in; and I had a high- 
ly favoured time in gospel testimony among them. 
After the public meeting, I had a select opportunity 
with Friends, in which I had some close, trying 
work; returning on their own heads what they had 
loaded me with; and telling them that if they did not 
endeavour to become reconciled to one another, they 
would dwindle and come to nothing — I also desired 
of them in future never to divulge such things to 
strangers, and especially to travelling public Friends. 
I also pressed upon them to endeavour to settle the 
matter, if possible, even now before they parted: 
which they did, and brought about an amicable set- 
tlement, and a good degree of unity was restored. — 
So I had cause* to be thankful for the favour, and 
lodged that night at Asa Schooley's where the meet- 
ing was held. 

Next day we visited the families of John Cutler, 
John Herrit and Joel Morris. The day following, 
in company with our young friend Abraham Laing, 
we set out to visit some Friends and friendly people 
at a place called Short Hills. On the way, we stop- 
ped to see the wonderful works of the hand of Provi- 
dence, at the falls of Niagara. When we came within 
about three miles of the great falls, on looking toward 
the outlet of the lake, we discovered a large body of 



52 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

mist or fog arising therefrom, which ascended to a 
great height in the air. On drawing nearer, we ob- 
served the stream or current of the water to run more 
rapidly, and with great swiftness, till it came within 
half a mile of the grand pitch or ledge of rocks; and 
then the waters were so hurried down what seemed 
as a rocky hill, that they became rolled up as in large 
heaps, with such a roar and foam that it was like a 
lather of soap-suds, and so run to the top of the clift 
of rocks where it fell off, about one hundred and sixty 
feet perpendicular, all in one solid column of water, 
in the form of a semicircle, as near as I could judge 
of the space of about half a mile in length. It then 
met an island in the lake, perhaps twenty rods in 
width, beyond which another column of water gushes 
over the ledge in like manner as the other, only it 
is straight and forms no curve. We went down to 
the very rock over which the water falls, and stood 
and looked off, or down into the pit or cavern where 
the water fell. But Oh! the awfulness and amaze- 
ment which I felt! I have no characters or language 
that can describe the sight to any person who has not 
seen it; neither is it possible, I believe, for any one 
to conceive one half of the great wonder, or the 
great body of smoke or mist it casts up, — so thick 
that no eye can penetrate it; and there appears to be 
many acres of the river entirely of a white foam. As 
I was looking on this marvellous work of the Al- 
mighty hand, I thought what man in the world could 
behold this place, and contemplate it but a moment, 
and yet deny the existence of a Supreme Being? 
surely not one on earth. 

8th mo. 1st. We went to Pelham, or Short Hills, 
and appointed a meeting to be held next day; which 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 53 

we accordingly attended; bat it was to me a low time 
as to the feeling of that life which crowns such op- 
portunities. I however endeavoured to ease my mind 
of what I felt as a duty, and got some satisfaction. 

Here I think it right to give some account of a 
remarkable deliverance of the hand of Providence, 
which happened, as I was informed, about six years 
before. A terrible hurricane raged in this place to 
such a degree that it blew down and destroyed all 
the timber for thirty miles in length and one mile 
in width: insomuch that I could not discover one 
tree of any bigness that stood whole. It was also so 
violent for another mile in width that it destroyed 
about one half the timber; and at that time and in 
this place, there lived ten or a dozen families, whose 
houses were all shattered, and some of tbem blown 
down and entirely ruined; yet not one person wa& 
slain among them, although several were hurt. One 
man was riding the road in the most dangerous spot, 
where the timber was very thick, and every tree was 
torn down around him; yet they fell so across logs 
and large roots of trees, that they were kept up from 
the ground in such a manner that neither the man 
nor his horse was killed, though they were both hurt. 
But he was obliged to remain in his deplorable situa- 
tion all night (it being in the afternoon when the 
storm happened) and till some time in the next day; 
when some of his neighbours came and helped him 
out. The people were so affrighted that several of 
them told me they were not sensible of hearing any 
trees fall: and after the awful storm was over and the 
wind had ceased, they endeavoured to go to see how 
it had fared with one another; — each supposing that 
their neighbours and friends were slain in the tem- 
5* 



54 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

pest. But when they met, it was with weeping for 
joy that their lives were preserved. The remains of 
the destruction were to be seen when I was there, 
and I thought it so remarkable a deliverance that it 
ought to be recorded, inasmuch as it evidently mani- 
fested the wonderful mercy of the great Preserver 
of mankind. 

We visited a number of Friends and friendly 
people in their families, and attended a meeting ap- 
pointed at Stanford, which was a large gathering, 
consisting of a few Friends, some Methodists, and 
many others who never before had been at a Friends' 
meeting. These not knowing the usefulness of silent 
waiting, were very uneasy in the time of silence, 
which was a trial to me; but I endeavoured to abide 
in the patience, and hope to the end. At length, I 
trust, in the Lord's time, I was raised in a good de- 
gree of life to declare the Truth to them in such a 
manner that it brought a profound silence over the 
meeting. I was led to show them the usefulness and 
efficacy of attending to their own gifts, or the light 
of Christ within them. Although it was a new doc- 
trine to many of them, yet they were willing to 
acknowledge it was a great truth, and too much ne- 
glected. We lodged with Jeremiah Moore, who 
went with us next day to see William Lippincott 
and Samuel Becket, who lived about eighteen miles 
from thence, having lately come from the Jersies. 
They received us kindly, and I thought if they kept 
their places, they might be useful to the little flock 
of Friends in those countries, or the two little meet- 
ings now begun in those parts. 

8th of 8th mo. In company with our friend Wm. 
Lippincott, we went to Queenstown, and agreed for 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 55 

a passage in the packet to Kingston, it being about 
one hundred and sixty miles by water on lake On- 
tario. Next day we went on board, and sailed in the 
afternoon; but got little sleep the night following by 
reason of a company of loose drunken men who were 
very noisy: which led me to consider what a pitch 
of hardness and unthoughtfulness men may arrive at 
by keeping bad company. Who that is concerned for 
his children's welfare, can consent that they should 
follow a sailor's life for a livelihood in this world? 

On the 13th we landed at Kingston, and w T ent 
thence on foot about four or five miles to our friend 
Aaron Brewer's. We were much fatigued by being 
on board the packet, and having hard lodging four 
nights, with loose company, and some of us being 
sea-sick; but were kindly received and refreshed by 
our friends Aaron Brewer and his wife; with whom 
we rested a day or two: then attended a meeting 
appointed at their house, which was large for this 
wilderness country, being made up of a few Friends, 
and others of various denominations. But all were 
quiet, and I had an open time. to declare Truth among 
them. Thanks be to the great Master of our assem- 
blies for his manifold mercies, saith my soul. Next 
day we rode to the Bay of Quinty to the house of 
John Dorland, and the day following visited the fami- 
lies of James Noxen and Reuben Beadel, a friendly 
man. We also made several other religious visits to 
families, .and on the 19th, being first-day, had a meet- 
ing at Philip Dorland's, which I thought was a fa- 
voured time. We then crossed the bay in company 
with Philip Dorland and James Noxen to West-lake, 
where we visited the family of Jacob Cronck; but it 
was a low time with me. Our friend James Noxen, 



5$ JOURNAL OF RTJFUS HALL. 

being in the ministerial line, laboured with some 
success, for which I felt thankful. 

22nd. Attended a meeting we had appointed at 
the house of Cornelius Blount, and I thought it a fa- 
voured one, though I was yet so low in mind as to 
be entirely silent; but James Noxen was much fa- 
voured in testimony, though not yet a recommended 
minister, but in unity with Friends. Next day, after 
visiting another family, we went to a place called 
Grassy Point, in order to visit the few Friends there. 
Had sittings with them to some satisfaction, although 
it was still low wafer with me. I compared myself 
to a vessel that was endeavouring to make the best 
of her way with a small wind, so that one could but 
just discern that she got along at all. But I endea- 
voured to be as well contented as I could, seeing I 
could be no otherwise, and believing that my heaven- 
ly Father knew what was best for me at all times. 
After visiting another family, we again crossed the 
bay, and lodged at David Barker's. 

26th. We again attended the meeting at Philip 
Borland's, in which I was silent as to public testi-. 
mony. I thought the people might see that the 
Lord's ministers could not preach at any time when 
they would have them. So I felt easy in mind, and 
willing to be disposed of as my heavenly Master 
should see best. Next day visited Daniel Haight's 
family to good satisfaction, a little stream of gospel 
love flowing freely towards them. 

28th. We set out for Kingston; feeling myself 
fully clear of these parts, and seeing nothing but that 
I might soon proceed homewards; so we came to 
Aaron Brewer's that night. Next day visited Joseph- 
Farris's family; and the night following was taken* 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 57 

unwell with an ague and fever, which was very try- 
ing to me. On the 31st, feeling fully clear of this 
part of the world, I was easy to return homewards; 
and on considering in what way to proceed, we at 
length concluded to take passage by water in a small 
boat. So we wrote to our friend Jeremiah Moore, 
at Niagara, who had our horses in keeping, to sell 
them, and after satisfying himself for his trouble, to 
transmit the balance to us. 

1st of 9th mo. We took leave of our friends, and 
went on board the boat; got on about eighteen miles 
to Grenadier island, and lodged on the ground, there 
being no inhabitants on the island; but making a good 
fire, and having blankets and sail cloth to cover us, 
we fared tolerably w T ell. Next day, we continued 
our voyage along the lake shore, and at night again 
lodged on the ground; but the ague and fever again 
seizing me, I got but little rest. Yet I was borne up, 
I trust, with a good degree of patience, under it all, 
and the company were very kind to me. 

3d. Pursuing our course along near the shore, we 
arrived at Oswego some time after night-fall, being 
about eighty miles from Kingston. Here we had 
good entertainment at a tavern, and next morning 
felt refreshed, having missed my chill. Then taking 
our way up Oswego river, we got forward only eleven 
miles all day, by reason of the many rapids and shal- 
lows. At night we got to a sort of house or cabin; 
but the ague seized me again with a harder fit than 
before; and though we had to sleep on the floor, it 
was better than no shelter at all. In the morning the 
boatmen hired some men to carry our boat on wheels 
till we passed the falls; then took to the water again 
till we came to Oneida river, and up that some dis- 



5S JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

tance: lodged on the ground in the woods, it being 
uninhabited here also. Next day we passed through 
Oneida lake, and in the evening came to the mouth 
of Wood creek, where we lodged at an inn. 

7th. We took our rout up Wood creek with great 
difficulty by reason of the many shallow places, but 
got forward about eighteen miles. At night, had a 
good house and bed to lodge in, but my disorder now 
seizing me every night, I could get very little rest; 
and my bodily strength failed so much that I could 
not walk without help from the boat to the house. 
My appetite also failing, it was a low, trying time 
to me; yet the kindness of my companion, as well 
as the rest of our company, seemed to mitigate my 
sufferings. Next day, passing fort Stanwix, and 
through two locks and a canal, we entered the Mo- 
hawk river; and thus with much difficulty and hard 
labour, by drawing the boat over many rapids and 
shallow places, we got slowly along till we arrived 
at Schenectady on the 11th, where we hired a man 
to carry me in a chair to Joseph Fowler's, about 
fourteen miles; and from thence I was carried home 
in a wagon next day, being the 12th of the 9th mo., 
to the great joy of my dear wife and family. I was. 
truly comforted to find them all well, although I was 
very low in health myself. 

In this journey I was gone nearly three months, — 
travelled by land and water about twelve hundred 
miles according to computation, and attended twen- 
ty-four meetings, beside many family visits. 

14th. In taking a review of my little services, I 
feel perfect peace; having abundant cause to bless, 
praise and magnify the Divine hand that hath pre- 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 59 

served me to this day. Although I have many times, 
as it were, staggered and reeled to and fro, yet at this 
time I feel delivered from fear of falling, if I do but 
keep up the daily watch, which is necessary for all 
men. 

16th. I attended our meeting at Easton, and was 
much comforted in silting with my home friends in 
a good degree of solemnity and awful reverence be- 
fore the Lord. Next day feeling my health improv- 
ing, I walked out to see some of my friends and 
neighbours, among whom was my well respected, 
aged friend, Daniel Cornell. He told me a dream 
which led to these remarks: There are many in these 
days who feel the necessity of knowing Christ raised 
in them, so that by feeling his powerful working in 
their minds, they may have the witness or seal of his 
owning presence in themselves, who yet do not get 
deep enough, or else by letting in discouragements 
they give up the labour too soon. But it is those 
only that are earnestly engaged to press forward 
through all opposition, who will ever witness the 
resurrection of Christ, to their real and solid com- 
fort. 

2d of 10th mo. What meaneth this language that 
I have heard for several days past in the ear of my 
mind; " Study to be quiet, and do thy own business." 
It seems as if it was a scripture passage, but I cannot 
find it there; and whether it be there or not, there 
is great instruction in it indeed. It hath afforded 
me much in the contemplation of it, and I think it 
might be of use to every class of mankind, if it were 
properly attended to. Study to be quiet. What 
can be more necessary, when any thing is presented 
to the mind to be done or omitted, than first to en- 



60 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

deavour to quiet all our own vain thoughts and self- 
contrivance, in order to become properly qualified 
to know our own proper business; seeing that of our- 
selves we can do nothing that will redound to the 
praise or glory of God: and to glorify God our Crea- 
tor, is the ultimate end for which we were created. 
This, I suppose, is generally confessed by all sorts 
of people. Wherefore, if thou art young in years, 
it is thy indispensable duty to study to quiet all thy 
vain thoughts and wandering imaginations, in order 
to be made capable of hearing the still small voice 
that speaks in thy heart, saying, This is the way; 
walk in it. And although it may lead thee in the 
way of the cross to thy natural inclinations, yet it is 
the Way to the crown of perfect peace. Therefore 
do nothing rashly; but study to be quiet, and find 
out and do thy own business; for thou must work 
out thy own salvation, and that with fear and trem- 
bling. Thou must not look out to others to do thy 
work, but turn the attention of thy mind inward to 
the gift of light and grace in thy own heart, and study 
to be quiet in thy own thoughts, not suffering thy 
natural will and desires to have the pre-eminence in 
thy mind. So wilt thou be in the way to be rightly 
informed what thy business is, and to be strengthen- 
ed to perform it in an acceptable manner. 

If thou art numbered among the middle-aged, yet 
this lesson would be as useful to thee as perhaps any 
other: for I appeal to thy own conscience, whether 
when thou takest a retrospective view of thy past 
life, thou dost not see many things that have not 
been rightly done by thee; and whether, in thy se- 
rious moments, thou art not almost ready to say, I 
would not do so now. All these mis-steps have been 



JOURNAL Ot RUFUS HALL. 61 

taken by being too hasty in thy mind, and for want 
of studying to quiet thy own will and self-contri- 
vance; and if the watch is not kept up, it may be 
the case with thee again. Wherefore, in all thy fu- 
ture progress in life, study to be quiet, and mind thy 
own particular business, and especially that business 
which is of eternal consequence; for the work of sal- 
vation is of very great moment to thee, to me, and 
to all mankind; seeing we are all but tenants at will, 
and the dissolution of these bodies awaits us contin- 
ually, but of the time when, we are all at uncertain- 
ty. As the tree falleth so it lies, whether toward the 
north or toward the south: and without holiness no 
man shall see the Lord. Therefore, as we cannot 
expect to find repentance in the grave, it is highly 
needful for us to study to be quiet and mind our own 
proper business. 

Thou art now in the middle walks of life, accord- 
ing to a common way of reckoning; a great portion 
of thy precious time is already past, and perhaps thy 
day's work may be far behind-hand, so that it re- 
quires great diligence to redeem the time. Perhaps 
thou art in the midst of business, having a large fa- 
mily to provide for; and thy farm produces plenti- 
fully; or thou hast a large and lucrative trade on 
hand, and thy mind is agitated divers ways, — taking 
thought how to make the best of all thou hast; and 
how to take advantage of the times, not only for the 
support of thy family and household, but also to 
make thyself a little richer, or to increase thy stock. 
But canst thou, by taking thought, add one cubit to 
thy stature? Dost thou find by all these struggles 
and anxious thoughts and cares, that thou art any 
nearer heaven than thou wast some time past? and 
6 



62 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

what progress art thou making thitherward ? It is 
the end which erowns all at last: and if thou miss 
heaven and happiness, thou wilt lose all that is truly 
worth having. Is it not indeed high time for thee 
to study to quiet these perplexing thoughts about 
this life, and be more seriously thoughtful concern- 
ing thy everlasting welfare? Oh! saith my soul, that 
thou wouldst instantly and earnestly give heed to 
this little but comprehensive text, Study to be quiet 
and do thy own business, — thy particular and im- 
portant business; seeing the matter appears to be 
urgent, and the cause of everlasting consequence. 

If thou art old, and feelest the infirmities of body, 
the natural production of old age, — yet perhaps there 
remains something for thee to do. Although thou 
hast experienced much in the course of thy life, and 
hast seen many changes, overturnings and revolu- 
tions in thy time, yet all these things ought not to 
trouble thee: let them not perplex thy mind, but 
study to be quiet and attend to thy own business. 
Keep thy mind calm and quiet, and be not troubled 
at these worldly, changing things. Since thy glass 
is almost run, and thou wilt soon be centred in the 
world of spirits, let it be thy chief and principal. con- 
cern to be found ready at the midnight cry, having 
thy lamp trimmed and burning, with oil in thy ves- 
sel, so as to enter into the bride chamber. Study 
then to be quiet, and daily wait to have thy mind 
supplied with heavenly incomes of Divine grace. 
Feel after the Lord's owning presence; by which 
the evidence of the love of God may so abound in 
thy heart, that all doubts and fears will vanish away* 
So wilt thou see and know that studying to be quiet 
and doing thy own work, will produce more solid 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 63 

peace and happiness than all the cares, and troubles, 
and tossings and anxieties of this world can ever 
procure. 

Art thou an active member in the church? This 
lesson will be profitable for thee to learn; for human 
invention in the exercise of church discipline can do 
little or no good, and certainly may do much hurt. 
Therefore, study to be quiet, as to thy own wit, cun- 
ning, and contrivance, and centre down to thy own 
business; which is to know that of thyself, without 
Divine influence, thou art a fool as to the right know- 
ledge and qualification for church discipline, Thy 
mind must be quickened and influenced by the life- 
giving presence of Christ, the head of the church: 
and as thou becomest thus quickened, and made 
alive, and keeps in that life, thou wilt labour success- 
fully therein; and not till then. Wherefore, in the 
first place, and above all things, study to be quiet, 
and attend to the Divine gift in thyself, that thou 
mayst know and do thy own business. It is also 
needful for those that do not consider themselves as 
active members, but sit as learners; yet there is 
something for these to do; for all the members of 
the body are useful to one another as they abide in 
the life of the body; and as they draw their life from 
the head, they all have to centre down to their own 
gifts, to study to be quiet, and mind their own busi- 
ness; hereby experiencing their spirits to be dipped 
and baptized, united and knit together with their 
brethren and sisters in the service of God for the 
good of souls in general, and for the mutual comfort 
and edification of society. 

And ye ministers, — what class of mankind hath 
more need to give due attention to the subject before 



64 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

us, than you have; since all those that pretend to 
teach others and to preach the gospel, must speak as. 
the oracles of God, or otherwise they cannot expect 
either to profit the people or themselves. If they are 
not clothed and immediately authorised with power 
from on high, — if they have not on their minds and 
spirits, theUrim and theThummim, the bell and the 
promegranate, — -they may make abundance of noise 
about religion, but all to no good purpose. For, ta 
preach the gospel is no less than to preach the very 
power of God ; for " the gospel is the power of God 
unto salvation/' If the minds and spirits of those 
that minister are not covered with, and dipped and 
baptized into that power, so as to feel the clothing of 
Divine love and charity, with an immediate necessi- 
ty and command from God, — 4hey will give an un- 
certain sound; and then who shall prepare for battle 
against sin? Their preaching will be no more in the 
ears of the hearers, nor even in their own mouths, 
than a pleasant song: it will not be in any wise sa- 
ving, or edifying; neither will the speaker or hearers 
be profitably baptized thereby. But if ministers are 
rightly called, qualified and sent or called forth, their 
ministry will be saving, edifying and comfortable. 
It was so of old;, and God, the author of it, is the 
same yesterday, to-day and forever: he changeth not. 
His will is to save men from sin as much now as it 
was then. When Christ sent forth his disciples, he 
gave them this particular charge;. " Go ye, and teach 
all nations, baptizing them into the name or power 
of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit." 
Therefore, if preachers are to teach so effectually as 
thereby so powerfully to reach the hearts of the peo- 
ple that they are baptized into the very power and 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 65 

life of God, — have not they who profess to preach 
the gospel, great need to study to be quiet, and do 
their own business, which is the Lord's work thra' 
them ? 

If we of ourselves can do nothing towards advan- 
cing the glory of God, and are yet called to speak as 
the oracles of God, we are no more than the trumpet 
through which God sometimes makes his will known 
to the people: and surely no trumpet can sound any 
thing intelligibly of itself, to any one. But as it is 
the place of a trumpet sometimes to be silent, altho 7 
in the midst of the people, — because there are times 
when it is not needful that the trumpet be sounded; 
so it is with ministers of the gospel: it is their pro- 
per business sometimes to be silent So that they 
have great need to study to be quiet, in order that 
they may be rightly informed what to say and when 
to speak, and when to be silent; as well as where 
the message is to be delivered, and who it is for, or 
whether it is for any particular person or persons; or 
whether it is for their own use; or to be delivered in 
public. All which it is needful for ministers to be 
rightly and clearly informed of, before they can be 
properly qualified to teach the people profitably, or 
preach baptizingly. But, as these qualifications can- 
not be attained by any art or letter-learning, nor yet 
by all the cunning studies and inventions of men; 
for that which is known of God is manifest in them 
by the light of his grace in their hearts, as they give 
good heed thereunto:— so it is highly needful for 
ministers to study to be quiet, and thus know and 
distinguish their own proper business. This imme- 
diate revelation of the Divine will and qualifying 
power is needful to be known, felt, and attended to, 
6* 



66 JOURNAL OF RUFTJS HALL. 

by ministers, not only when to rise, but when de- 
claring to the people: else how do they know what 
to say, and when to be silent and close? For let it 
be remembered, that they who add to or diminish 
any thing from the sure word of prophecy, will be 
in danger of the curse mentioned in the book of Re- 
velation; or as the prophet said concerning them that 
kindle a fire, and compass themselves about with the 
sparks that they have kindled, — they shall lie down 
in sorrow. 

Oh! then, let us all centre down to our own gifts, 
and study to quiet all our own human thoughts, ima- 
ginations, inventions and contrivances; and let the 
Lord God of hosts speak by and through whom he 
pleases. And let all flesh keep silence before him; 
so shall we know what our proper business is, and 
be enabled to do it acceptably. 

And ye elders also have need to study quietness 
and true silence, as well as others. For how can ye 
judge rightly of spirits and of doctrines, or travail 
with the ministers, unless your minds are rightly in- 
formed and Divinely qualified? And is it not need- 
ful, in order to this, that all self-exaltation, self-con- 
trivance, and self-conceit, together with all former 
prejudices or conclusions, be laid aside and put away, 
before ye can judge righteous judgment, or stand as 
upright pillars in the church, or be as fathers and 
mothers in Israel in a spiritual travail ? How need- 
ful, therefore, for you to study to be quiet, in order 
to discern and feel and know your proper business, 
and be Divinely qualified to do it! 

But in truth it may be said, What class, station, 
or situation of mankind is there that would not be 
profited by rightly learning, understanding, and giv- 



JOURNAL OF RTJFUS HALL. 67 

ing due and practical attention to these few but com- 
prehensive words of admonition, " Study to be quiet 
and do thy own business." 

10th month 14th. Since I came home from my 
western visit, I have observed that our meetings at 
Easton are much larger than they were formerly; 
which I thought was in some measure occasioned by 
the abundance of preaching that occurred in our 
meeting about this time. And a fear hath often pos- 
sessed my mind lest too many came for the sake of 
hearing a pleasant sound of words, and did not suffi- 
ciently attend to their own gifts; so missed of the 
true usefulness of attending meetings. On this sub- 
ject I was very much exercised, believing that if the 
people did not strictly attend to their own gifts, or 
the measure of grace in their own hearts, they would 
be more likely to be hurt by much preaching, though 
it might flow from the right fountain, than be bene- 
fited by it. However, I see clearly that it is best at 
all times, and under all our exercises, to put our trust 
in the Lord, and let him speak by and through whom 
he pleases, and as much as he pleases; for we are 
weak, ignorant, and short-sighted creatures, and can 
of ourselves do nothing that will redound tahis hon- 
our and praise. 

17th. As I was driving oxen, drawing timber for 
the use of my farm, I had occasion to pass by the 
dwelling house of a man who is considered wealthy, 
having many of the conveniences of life, and is 
withal a very good neighbour, the following reflec- 
tions occurred: This man began the world as poor as 
myself,and is now in the space of twenty years, worth 
perhaps more than three times as much as I am; yet 
I suppose I have done more labour than he has: and 



68 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

while he has large sums of money out at use, I am 
put to it to keep clear of debt. A query arose in my 
mind why it should be so; and whether all things 
were right with us both, while our circumstances in 
regard to this life were so different ? This man is 
considered a great farmer, and seems naturally what 
is called a very clever neighbour. He seems to have 
a sleight at making a good bargain in trading, in buy- 
ing and selling; and as yet steers his course among 
men so as to avoid their censure. He makes not 
much profession or appearance of being religious: 
but will sometimes go to meeting when it best suits 
him, or when some travelling Friend comes along 
and appoints a meeting. 

Now, as this character may apply to many who are 
considered prosperous and thriving in the things of 
this life, it appears to me there is danger of suffering 
the mind to be too much taken up with studying and 
contriving how to make the most of things; — how to 
take the advantage of the times and circumstances of 
business; and how a poor debt may be shifted off into 
better hands by a little management; also in observ- 
ing who has the best horses, cattle and stock, — who 
is under the necessity of selling cheap, or buying 
dear. These worldly cares and anxieties, with the 
uneasiness occasioned by the fear of losing by sink- 
ing or poor creditors, may prey upon the thoughts 
so as to prevent sleep and the natural rest of body 
and mind. The mental eye may become so blinded 
by the corroding cares and concerns of this life, that 
it sees not the necessity of becoming truly religious; 
and therefore chiefly minds the things of this world. 

I believe the Lord in wisdom hath seen meet to 
set one above another in such a sense as for one to- 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 69 

have more of this world's goods committed to his 
stewardship, than another. As to myself, although 
I have comparatively but little of the treasures of 
this world, yet I have a sufficiency for myself and 
family in a plain way, and can entertain my friends 
with simplicity and satisfaction, feeling much delight 
and comfort in their company, and have but few 
things appertaining to this life to give me anxiety 
or trouble. Thus, we have a cloud of witnesses to 
confirm us in the truth, that a little with content- 
ment, is better than great gain, or great possessions 
and trouble therewith. And I am fully convinced 
that in the wise administration of Divine Providence, 
it is as great a blessing to some to be poor, as it is to 
others to be rich in the things of this world: but in 
all situations, Divine wisdom is needful and profita- 
ble to direct aright, and to make us faithful stewards, 
whether of little or much. 

24th. I attended the monthly meeting at Saratoga, 
and had a favoured time in testimony; enlarging, as 
it opened to me in the light, on the circumstance of 
Paul's being brought before Felix the governor. — 
When he reasoned with him " of righteousness, tem- 
perance, and judgment to come, Felix trembled;" 
being no doubt fully convinced of the truth of Paul's 
doctrine: and yet as if to evade the cross, he said to 
Paul, " Go thy way for this time; when I have a 
convenient season, I will call for thee." But though, 
he sent for him often, and doubtless knew that Paul 
was an innocent man, yet he never did set him at 
liberty, as it was in his power to do, but continued 
him a prisoner. Thus, instead of being tender to- 
wards him, Felix became so hardened that when the 
time came that he must resign his place to another* 



70 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

"being willing to show the opposing Jews a plea- 
sure," rather than do justice, he " left Paul bound." 
After which, it was out of his power to set him at 
liberty, even if he had been ever so willing. And 
so it is in a spiritual sense: for as we put off and de- 
lay yielding obedience to manifested duty, we grow 
still harder and harder, weaker and weaker, and 
blinder and blinder, until we lose all the power or 
strength we had to do the things that we have been 
fully convinced we ought to do. 

The next day, at our mid-week meeting, I felt, as 
I thought, like Peter when shut up and bound in 
prison. But as I cried or breathed to God for help, 
a Friend stood up and spoke so exactly to my state 
and condition, that my bands fell off, the iron gate 
opened as of its own accord, and I was set at liberty 
to praise the Lord who is everlastingly worthy. — 
Thus, he works by instruments when he sees meet, 
for the help and salvation of his depending children. 

About the beginning of the 11th month, there 
were several sudden deaths in our neighbourhood, 
which seemed to he a very solemn warning to us all. 
The people were earnestly entreated to be mindful 
of their latter end, and tenderly exhorted to be pre- 
pared to meet death at all times. Oh! who among 
us will be so wise as to improve by these solemn 
admonitions? I believe it will be those that live daily 
in the true fear of the Lord. May the number of 
these increase. 

18th. Attended our meeting at Easton, and felt 
entirely empty, so as to be compared to a blank. But 
as I sat, with my mind retired inward, it was sound- 
ed in the ear of my mind, Wait on the Lord, and let 
him arise in his own time, and in his own way. This 



JOURNAL OF RTJFUS HALL. 71 

settled in my mind with the evidence of Divine light 
and life, as being that which all men and women 
ought to do, in order that they might be qualified 
rightly to worship God in spirit, and in the way and 
manner acceptable to him. Those minds that become 
rightly centred in their own gifts, looking inward to 
the Lord for Divine assistance to perform worship 
in an acceptable manner, — are rightly qualified to re- 
ceive the real benefit of assembling together, whether 
the meeting be held in silence or not. These wit- 
ness their inward spiritual strength to be renewed 
in a right manner, and their minds and spirits mount 
upwards with wings as eagles; and these truly enjoy 
the sweet fellowship of brethren and sisters, begotton 
of the heavenly Father, and made like unto the sons 
of God. 

But those that grow impatient and do not keep to 
the inward exercise, but want help in their own time 
and way, are like the children of Israel when Moses 
was gone up into the mount and had tarried many 
days, — they said to Aaron, their minister, "Up, make 
us gods that may go before us, for as for Moses, we 
wist not what has become of him." These seem as 
though they would almost draw some of the minis- 
ters off their seats, in order that they might hear 
something with their outward ears, so as to be amus- 
ed and elevated thereby. But, poor creatures, they 
would all be deceived, even if they should succeed 
in their desires: for, if any of the ministers should 
be off their watch, and so far miss their way as to 
gratify them with words without life and power, it 
would do them no more good than Aaron's calf did 
the children of Israel — and we may remember their 
conduct incurred so great displeasure from God, that 



72 JOURNAL OF RtTFUS HALL. 

there fell of them in that day about three thousand 
men. Now, although such superficial impatient hear* 
ers may seem to like such preaching well, and call it 
good doctrine, — may even proclaim as the Israelites 
did in that day, These be thy gods, Israel, which 
brought thee out of the land of Egypt; — yet are they 
not profited by it at all. 

As life arose into dominion, I found a necessity 
to stand up and open these views to the people, with 
much enlargement, and had good satisfaction in my 
labour, feeling the peace of God to rest on my mind. 
And now, in penning these remarks, I think minis- 
ters may learn a profitable lesson of caution, by ob- 
serving Aaron's weakness in condescending to the 
people who were in an impatient and murmuring 
disposition, because Moses, their leader, was with- 
drawn for a season about his proper business. It 
appears that Aaron, although a chosen minister of 
God, had so much (may I not say?) foolish compas- 
sion on them, that, being willing to do something 
by which they might be pacified, he said to them, 
"Break off the golden ear-rings that are in your ears, 
and bring thein unto me.^ And the people did so; 
and he cast them into the fire, as he told Moses, "and 
there came out this calf." How strikingly warning 
and instructive is the passage! For when ministers 
feel that the people are getting uneasy and discon- 
tented with silence* as supposing their spiritual Mo- 
ses is gone, — how apt are some weak ones to be 
willing to do something in their own strength, like 
calling for the ear-rings! Observe, something apper- 
taining to the ears. For doctrines, or words brought 
forth in our own time and strength (when our spir- 
itual Moses is withdrawn) can reach no farther than 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 73 

as it were in at one ear and out at the other: so that 
such preaching is but like a ring or round of ceremo- 
ny, wanting the life. Yea, although we may be so 
eloquent in speech that the people may think high- 
ly of us and of our doctrine, and speak much in our 
praise, as they did of Aaron's calf, — yet it being from 
no higher source than in and of ourselves and our 
own ability as men, it wants the true life of gospel 
ministry; and therefore is no better than an idol or 
image, and can do no more good than Aaron's calf; 
the making and worshipping of which was such a 
transgression in the Divine sight that he was greatly 
displeased with them, so that not only a great num- 
ber of them lost their lives, but Moses also was so 
provoked that he brake the two tables of stone and 
cast them away, and withal severely rebuked Aaron 
for his folly: insomuch that Israel seemed as it were 
left in confusion without law, a*id under the displea- 
sure of an offended God. Even so it is with all our 
performances that are done in our own will, strength 
and time, though we or others may think ever so 
highly of them. 

12th month 9th. It has been a low season to me, 
with deep poverty of spirit for some time past; un- 
der which I have been led to inquire into the cause; 
whether the Lord has withdrawn his presence on 
account of something I have heretofore done that I 
ought to have left undone; or whether I have omit- 
ted something that I ought to have done? My cou- 
rage seemed almost gone at times, and my mental 
energy nearly spent. It seemed sometimes as if I 
did but just breathe, and was in a state neither dead 
nor alive. I said in my heart, Oh! how long will 
this dispensation continue? Whither is my Beloved 
7 



74 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL* 

gone? and what comfort can I take in his absence? 
But if this is for the trial of my faith in him, and to 
prove my love to him, let me get to my watch-tower 
and there patiently abide, watching and waiting for 
the arising of his light and life in my soul. Then, 
whatever may be the end of this trying season, I 
shall know that his mercy endures forever — and be 
enabled in his own time to give him the praise, as- 
cribing all honour and renown to his worthy name. 

13th. Gospel truth was declared by a Friend in 
our monthly meeting, greatly to my strength and 
encouragement, and the little, humble travailers were 
incited to perseverance in the way of the Lord. It 
was a good meeting to me and many others— and 
some of us were made willing to set up our Ebenezer 
and say, Hitherto hath the Lord helped us. 

16th. At our meeting at Easton, our ancient friend 
Anne Hoag, who has been a long time silent as to 
public declaration, again appeared in a powerful tes- 
timony in the life of the gospel; which caused my 
heart to rejoice and to be right glad. After which a 
young man spoke with a good savour, and Anne ap- 
peared in supplication. Thus, after a season of deep 
poverty of spirit to me, I was favoured with a time 
of feasting as on fat things, greatly to my refresh- 
ment and encouragement. Thanks be to my God 
forever. 

1st mo. 11th, 1799. About this time I received a 
letter from my friend Aaron Brewer, of Upper Ca- 
nada, which revived a concern that had been on my 
mind for some weeks, to write an epistle to Friends 
and friendly people at and about the Bay of Canty. 
This being something new to me, after the concern 
became ripe, I thought best to advise with some 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 75 

Friends about it; being loth to do any thing that 
might occasion offence, or appear like forwardness 
in myself. But after opening my concern to my 
friends, they left me to my freedom to act therein. 

Now these Friends at the Bay of Canty were 
mostly new members, and had but little experience 
in the discipline of society; they had also lately had 
a preparative meeting settled among them, and in- 
deed more than a common preparative meeting; for 
they had liberty to accomplish their marriages as 
though it was a monthly meeting; also to deal with 
offenders, but not to disown nor receive members 
without the consent of Nine Partners monthly meet- 
ing, of which they were a branch. These privi- 
leges were given them by reason of their remote- 
ness from Friends of Nine Partners, it t>eing four 
hundred miles thence to the Bay of Canty. These 
circumstances, together with the great distance they 
were from experienced Friends, so that they were 
not likely to be visited very often by such, occasion- 
ed me many serious thoughts about them since my 
late visit there, which resulted in the following essay. 

AN EPISTLE 
To the Preparative Meeting at Adolphus-town, on 
the Bay of Canty, Upper Canada. 
Dear friends, — In that love which neither dis- 
tance of place, nor length of time can erase, do I sa- 
lute you; and hereby inform, that since I was with 
you I have had cause, in my serious meditations, to 
sympathize with you, I trust, in a degree of feeling 
sense of your remote situation from Friends. And 
lately hearing of the labours and service of the com- 
mittee from the Yearly Meeting, it hath increased my 



76 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL, 

concern: not that I think it was not right that you 
should be favoured with a meeting for discipline in 
some sort, but because I discovered among you di- 
vers states that would be either made better by a 
right use of such a privilege, or made worse by a 
wrong use, or rather the abuse of it. 

Dear friends, it seems to me that it is somewhat 
like lighting the candle for you. Now no man light- 
eth a candle and putteth it under a bushel or a bed; 
but setteth it on a candlestick that all who are in the 
house may have light; which represents to my mind 
an exertion of talents. You all have gifts or talents; 
and some of you will have to stand as it were in the 
foremost rank, in order to hold forth the lig^t to 
others; and it may be too in a public way, as well as 
in a more private capacity. dear friends, be not 
negligent; and say not in your hearts, I am about as 
good as such or such an one; and it is a cross to me 
to deal with another, although I see that he or she 
doeth not right. I had much rather some one else 
would do the work, for I think it would be better 
received than from me; and he or she is more capa- 
ble than I am. dear friends, this sort of reason- 
ing is too much like hiding the light under the bed 
of ease, or under the bushel or measure, and measur- 
ing ourselves by ourselves. Remember, dear friends, 
that it is said, "The sluggard will not plough by rea- 
son of the cold; therefore he shall beg in harvest and 
have nothing;" and that " slothfulness will cover a 
man with rags." This kind of reasoning, I believe, 
is the cunning insinuation of the enemy of all good, 
and will bring on poverty of spirit in an impercepti- 
ble manner; and you may have to cry for help when 
it is too late. 



JOURNAL OF RUPUS HALL. 77 

Wherefore, dear friends, be aroused and work 
while it is day, for the night cometh wherein no 
man can work. A disposition to put off and make 
excuses, serves but to dim the little light we are fa- 
voured with; and by thus giving way from time to 
time, the little sense we have of good and of our du»- 
ty to God and one to another, at length becomes 
entirely lost. On the contrary, as we give diligence 
to occupy our talents, we find by experience that the 
five doth gain other five, the two other two, and so 
might the one as well in- proportion. 

I do not thus write to stir up any thing before the 
right time, or to hasten an untimely birth in any: 
for fcam fully sensible that there is a time to be si- 
lent, as well as a time to speak; and to know the 
right time, and what, and where to speak, is a great 
point of wisdom, which nothing but the true light of 
Christ in our hearts can testify and explain to us. 

Dear friends, remember the case of the impotent 
man that lay at the pool of Bethesda; It seems 
there was an angel went down at a certain season, 
and troubled the water, and that whosoever first 
stepped in after the troubling of the water, was cured 
of whatsoever disease he had. But we may be too 
fast, as well as too slow. Had any one stepped in 
before the troubling of the water by the good angel, 
he would not have been healed, any more than if he 
had not stepped in after it was troubled; although 
he might have felt the shock of being plunged into 
the water, hut the qualifying virtue being wanting 
no effectual, healing could take place; We may also 
observe that there are divers causes by which waters 
may be troubled or moved; sometimes by wind; 
sometimes by casting in something* but none of these 
7* 



78 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

ways of moving it will effect a cure, short of the effi- 
cacy of the angel's power or virtue. Friends, 
whoever acts for God in the cause of Truth, must 
act in the life and power of God, or it will not re- 
dound to his praise. We may try all we can do 
through and by our own windy wisdom or wit; and 
may by our own strength cast in something that may 
seem to agitate the water, or fan the flame of zeal in 
our own minds or the minds of others; — yet the 
right anointing, the baptizing power of God, being 
wanting, nothing is done to profit. 

There are some people who seem to have the bell 
to make a sound, but not being furnished with the 
pomegranate which gives the proper savour,^hey 
make an uncertain sound, and therefore none pre- 
pares for the spiritual warfare. I greatly desire not 
to discourage any tender mind, but to encourage 
every opening of duty that is in the light of Christ: 
which light, as it is duly attended to, will show with 
clearness, and distinguish the precious from the vile. 
It will discover to us the difference between the 
movings of the angel of light, and our own creature- 
ly contrivance, in our religious performances. In this 
way, you may be qualified to act as far as the light 
dictates; and as you keep to this sure guide, and take 
it for your moving principle and rule of action, you 
will feel true peace in your labours. And though 
you may see but little and therefore do but little, yet 
it will be approved, as were the widow's two mites; 
for " a living dog is better than a dead lion." 

And, dear friends, there are amongst you those 
that attend your meetings for worship, and who are 
partly convinced of the Truth: and it is likely some 
of these are at times thinking of joining themselves 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 79 

as members of our religious society. I greatly de- 
sire they may be tenderly dealt with, and that you 
may observe a harmless and innocent openness to- 
wards them, with such a christian deportment as 
shall in no wise discourage them or disgust them. 
Thus will you be enabled to lead them gently along, 
and be qualified to feed them with milk and not with 
strong meat: and in thus prudently nourishing the 
children, you will find in the Lord's time the fami- 
ly of his house will flourish and grow up like calves 
in the stalls; and others will flock to the windows 
of the ark of God's covenant, like harmless doves. 
my friends, I feel a flow of love towards others 
as v^l as the members of our society, I mean such 
especially as are well affected towards Friends' prin- 
ciples, and attend their meetings, and have in some 
measure seen the necessity of taking up the cross, so 
as to appear in a good degree of plainness of speech 
and apparel. To such I would say, take heed to your- 
selves; hide not your light; for although it may be 
known that you are not members of the society of 
Friends, yet you are considered as Friends and num- 
bered among them: and therefore it behoveth you to 
be wise and exemplary in all your jconduct, lest you 
mar the work that may be begun in others who yet 
make no visible appearance or profession of Truth 
to the world. Oh! therefore consider your standing 
and the necessity of advancing in the truth. I appre- 
hend some of you feel somewhat like the impotent 
man that had lain at the pool of Bethesda a long time, 
and thought himself so unable to help himself that 
he was ready to complain, " I have no man to put 
me into the pool, but while I am getting ready, 
another steps in." Oh! may you remember how 



80 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALE. 

he was healed through obedience to the command, 
u Arise, take up thy bed and walk:" and he arose> 
took up his bed, and went on his way. This was as 
great, or even a greater miracle than if he had plun- 
ged into the pool; for it was the word or power of 
God, and faith in Christ, that healed him. Doubt- 
less, if he had not been faithful and obedient to the 
command, and so had not made trial, he would not 
have been healed. So likewise, in a spiritual sense, 
if ye are not faithful to the sense of duty given you, 
but reason within yourselves that ye have none to 
help youj ye may lay a long time, weak, impotent, 
and un cured. But, dear friends, (for I love you) be 
faithful to the inward call; take up your beds of-'ease^ 
and bear them (though as a burden or cross) on your 
shoulders, and suffer not them (or that easy, reason- 
ing disposition) to hinder, you any longer. Arise, 
and walk; or go forward in the faith and light of the 
Lamb of God that taketh away the sins of the world: 
that so ye may obtain peace and rest at lasts, when 
time shall be no more. 

So wish^th, so prayeth, one that travails in spirit, 
in his measure, for the prosperity of Zion, and the 
enlargement of her borders, your friend, 

Rufus Hall. 

Easton, Washington county,, state of h 
New York, 16th of 1st mo. 1799. \ 

The 10th of the 2nd month, was a day of deliver- 
ance to my tried; mind; for I had been under much 
exercise for some time past, on account of several 
of my own children who had arrived at years of mar 
turity, and had become very negligent about attend- 
ing our religious meetings. Notwithstanding the 
frequent admonitions extended to them, they seem? 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 81 

ed to think there was no need of going to meeting 
so constantly as I thought necessary. My way has 
also seemed to be much closed up in public meetings, 
as to the ministry; which has occasioned deep search- 
ing of heart, like going down to the bottom of Jor- 
dan. But to-day, light again arose, and I was so fa- 
voured with Divine assistance in my public testimony 
in our meeting at Easton, that it seemed like bring- 
ing up stones of memorial. As I was returning home, 
I was overtaken by a serious young Friend who was 
going to my hpuse to visit my delinquent sons. This 
caused my heart to leap for joy; as I had for some 
time been desirous that some Friends might feel a 
sen^pf duty to make them a religious visit on that 
account. He had a very satisfactory opportunity 
with my family, and gave good advice to my chil- 
dren; which was a relief to my mind. 

I am renewedly made sensible that my great and 
good Master is leading me about and instructing me 
in some very profitable lessons of dependance on 
himself alone; showing me clearly that his own time 
is by far the best time to bring about his own work. 
But Oh! how necessary is true patience in all our 
trials, and a watchful care that no murmuring dis- 
position prevail in us, while under the baptizing 
hand! 

At our Quarterly meeting held at Easton, there 
were some things close and exercising; but all ended 
in unity and satisfaction; which is the crown of our 
meetings for discipline: for while Friends honestly 
labour in the spirit of unity which is the bond of 
harmony and peace, and act purely for the honour 
of God in all their offerings, they will hardly miss 
of comfort and consolation therein. Dear Hugh 



82 JOURNAL OP RUFUS HALL. 

Judge, of New York, attended the public meeting 
next day and had good service, both in testimony 
and supplication. 

Towards the latter end of the 2nd month, I was 
again brought into a state of great poverty of spirit; 
in which my mind seemed shut up or hedged in on 
every side. But I endeavoured to be as cheerful as 
I could, — to exercise patience, and to be thankful for 
the crumbs that might fall from the Master's table. 
After this, at our week-day meeting, I was strength- 
ened to sound an alarm to my friends; reminding 
them of the uncertainty of time, and that our next 
station will be in eternity, where we shall all be re- 
warded according to our works. A due considera- 
tion of this awful subject, seems enough to arouse the 
most stupid and careless mind. 

At our monthly meeting about the middle of the 
3d month, my wife and I, with several other Friends, 
were appointed to attend a meeting, requested by 
Friends to be held for six months at a place called 
Thirman's patent. In company with Simeon Brow- 
nell, we set out in a sleigh on the 18th, and reached 
Queensbury that day, it being about thirty miles. — 
Next day, taking in Lydia Southwick, we went on to 
Thirman's patent, about twenty-six miles, and lodged 
at the house of our friend Peleg Tripp. The day fol- 
lowing, we attended the meeting, which was held at 
Charles Leggett's. It was a favoured opportunity, 
which I think will not soon be forgotten; in which 
a door of utterance was opened to declare the gospel 
of peace in the power and demonstration of the spirit. 
On our way home, we attended Queensbury mid- 
week meeting to satisfaction. 

4th mo, 14th. I have had an excellent meeting to- 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. S3 

day, although nearly silent, except a short but live- 
ly testimony from our friend Abiel Gifford. Many 
times have I been convinced and satisfied, that good 
and profitable meetings consist not merely in abun- 
dance of preaching and praying; but more properly 
in turning our minds inward to our own gifts, and 
meditating on the law of God written in the heart; 
putting no trust in man whose breath is in his nos- 
trils, nor, even so much as wishing to hear preach- 
ing; but desiring to be fed with the sincere milk of 
the Word, or the bread of life that comes directly 
from God himself. While the mind is thus exercis- 
ed, it is in a teachable situation; and as it patiently 
waits^t becomes rightly prepared to receive the best 
of teaching in the Lord's own way and time, — whe- 
ther it be through his own immediate influence and 
operation on the mind, or by and through his instru- 
ments, by means of the organ of the outward ear. — 
But until men and women come to witness this great 
truth in themselves, I believe they never will be 
much profited by all their going to meeting, search- 
ing the scriptures, or hearing preaching and praying: 
And I have this testimony to bear to all professors 
of religion, as the truth of God in whom is no varia- 
bleness nor shadow of turning. 

But Oh! the loss that many sustain (and may I not 
say through ignorance) by suffering their minds to be 
so outward, as to suppose that Divine worship cannot 
be acceptably performed without the vocal sound of 
words; being unacquainted with that silent spiritual 
worship which is performed in the heart, by and 
through the power of God influencing thereto. — 
These spiritual worshippers individually know and 
feeJ this power of the holy Spirit operating in their 



$4 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

own hearts, to animate, enlighten and inform them 
of a truth that God is a spirit, and they that worship 
him must worship him in spirit and in truth. They 
also come to know that where two or three are ga- 
thered into his name or power, there he is in the 
midst of them; even in the midst of their own souls. 
Many there are in the world, even sincere-hearted 
people, who are trained up from youth to old age, by 
their teachers and ministers, in the belief that such 
can preach at all times; and that they must do so, or 
there can be no meeting of worship that will be ac- 
ceptable to God. Thus, by looking outward, and not 
accustoming themselves to feel after God and his 
goodness moving in their own hearts, their imvard 
eye becomes so dimmed as not to see for themselves; 
and they are led by others to believe that there is no 
such thing as inward,. spiritual worship to be attain- 
ed; although Christ declared that "the hour cometh 
and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship 
the Father in spirit and in truth; for the Father seek- 
eth such to worship him." Yet they say the scrip- 
ture is their rule in these things. But is not this such 
ignorance as God complained of by the mouth of his 
prophet Hosea, when he said, " My people are de- 
stroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast re- 
jected knowledge, therefore I will reject thee, that 
thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast for- 
gotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy 
children." A sharp reproof indeed, to Israel in that 
day! but may it not be as applicable now, seeing we 
live in a more glorious day of gospel light? For, if 
we are really believers in the gospel, we know (as 
said an eminent apostle) that "it is the power of God 
unto salvation to every one that believeth." But it 



JOURNAL OP RUFUS HALL. 85 

is true that " the grace of God which bringeth sal- 
vation, hath appeared unto all men;" and the true 
believers in that grace can say as the apostle did, 
" teaching us, that denying ungodliness and worldly 
lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly 
in this present world; looking for that blessed hope 
and the glorious appearing of the great God and our 
saviour, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us, that 
he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify un- 
to himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works." 
Surely, such privileges freely offered, if neglected 
by any of us, will be of no avail; but we shall justly 
deserve the same rebuke as those of old who reject- 
ed k|M)wledge, and forgot the law of their God. But, 
is it not mournful, in this day of gospel light, to see 
whole families, yea, almost whole nations, so much 
under the dark vail of priestcraft, as to believe and 
follow those who teach for hire and preach for mo- 
ney, and who tell the people that they must listen to 
them, even from one age to another, and that there 
is no way to come to the knowledge of God and of 
their duty to him, but by giving heed to what they 
say? Many of these hireling teachers say that im- 
mediate Divine revelation has ceased, and that peo- 
ple must come to them to be taught, and that they 
have more knowledge of the scriptures than com- 
mon men, which they have attained by their college 
education. Thus, many are, as it were, pinning their 
faith on the priests' sleeves, and paying them again 
and again for their learning; and yet are never able 
thereby to come to the knowledge of the Truth. — 
So, in one sense, it may be said, the Lord hath re- 
jected them and their children; and it hath come to 
pass as formerly, that " like people, like priest." 
8 






86 JOURNAL OP RUFUS HALL. 

At our Quarterly meeting in the 5th month, the 
weighty affairs that came before us were transacted 
in a spirit of unity and christian condescension. A 
monthly meeting was granted Friends at Peru, for 
one year, to be held under the notice of a commit- 
tee. Saratoga monthly meeting also proposed that 
a meeting be settled at Greenfield; on which a com- 
mittee was appointed to visit Friends of that place 7 
and report thereon. 

On the 14th of the 6th month, our dear friend and 
neighbour, Daniel Cornell, was taken unwell some- 
what suddenly, supposed to be a touch of apoplexy: 
he continued poorly for several days, in which time 
I went to see him. He seemed perfectly sensible, 
and said he had been taking a serious review ot his 
past life; — that although he discovered some things 
he had done and some he had omitted in his younger 
years, and thought if he had been more faithful, he 
might have been more serviceable to mankind, yet 
he could not find that any thing now lay as a charge 
against him. So that if it was the Lord's will to 
remove him at this time, he did not know that he 
should be better prepared; also said he was ready, 
and was not afraid to die. 

After this, although he got so much better as to be 
able to walk about, and even to go out to his fields, 
and his neighbours and family seemed encouraged to 
hope for his recovery, yet by several hints he drop- 
ped, it appeared he had a secret sense that his time 
here would be short. He, however, seemed to be 
mending till the 20th, a little after sunset, when he 
said he thought he felt as well as he had done for 
some considerable time past, except weakness. He 
went to bed early; and in a few minutes after, said 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 87 

he thought his disorder was returning upon him. He 
then said, "Oh! my head, how distressed it feels!" 
and closed his eyes; passing away without sigh or 
groan, or even moving a hand or foot. 

For some years before his death, he appeared to 
live under a sense of the uncertainty of his time here; 
saying he believed his time was short; and that he 
did not expect to have more than one spell of sick- 
ness, which he thought would conclude his days; and 
which has so come to pass. And now this testimony 
lives in my heart concerning him, as a debt due to his 
good name and the character which he bore among 
us. Having been acquainted with him as a near 
neighbour for more than twenty years, I can say, he 
was a man generally beloved by all that knew him; 
being of a mild, condescending disposition, and a 
great lover of peace and harmony, both in society 
and among his neighbours. He was a steady attender 
of our religious meetings, and a good example when 
there, sitting very still and solid, with his mind com- 
posed during the time of meeting. He was careful 
always to be there in good season; and I think I 
never observed him to be late in coming, during 
these twenty years past. He said if any thing hap- 
pened so that he could not get to meeting in good 
season, he would rather not go, lest he should dis- 
turb the solemnity of the meeting; a feeling which 
he greatly prized when there, and chose rather to be 
deprived of it himself than to mar it in others. He 
was seldom absent from any of our meetings; but if 
he necessarily missed being there, he preferred it 
should be on a first-day. rather than on a week-day 
meeting. He was also of a very condescending dis- 
position when matters went contrary to his mind in 



88 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

our meetings for discipline, as well as on other oc- 
casions. 

In his dealings amongst men, he was very honest 
and punctual, always paying his debts in due season; 
and choosing rather to overpay than fall short one 
penny. I have several times observed him to spend 
some time in going about among his neighbours and 
mechanics to settle and pay up small debts, perhaps 
not more than a shilling or two in a place. He was 
also very industrious in his outward business, and so 
prudent in laying it out that he generally got through 
in good season, and often before his neighbours. He 
used to say that people too often undertook too much 
work for the real comfort of body or mind. Being 
of a charitable disposition, he always gave something 
to the poor, according to his ability, for their help 
and support, both in society and elsewhere, as occa- 
sions required. 

By his two wives, he had fifteen children; most 
of whom lived to the age of men and women, and 
were married and settled before his death: so that 
he and his last wife passed several years of the latter 
part of his time in a very agreeable, retired manner, 
on a small farm of his own, which, through his in- 
dustry, produced plentifully for them, and some to 
spare. He often expressed his thankfulness that he 
was so favoured as to have a sufficiency of his own 
to live on, after a long and tedious struggle to pro- 
vide for and bring up a large family. 

I thought it would be a great pity that such an ex- 
ample should be forgotten, and have therefore pen- 
ned these lines that it might rather be kept in re- 
membrance, so that those w*ho survive may be ex-- 
cited to copy after it. 



JOURNAL OP RUFUS HALL. 89 

6th month 23d. I have now had several weeks of 
rest, in which I have enjoyed my bodily health bet- 
ter than usual; I have also had divers good and com- 
fortable times in meetings, though mostly silent. — 
Oh! that all within me that has any remains of self- 
ishness may be done away and entirely subdued, is 
the desire of my soul; so that when my Lord cometh, 
I may be found ready and willing to obey his re- 
quirings, whether in life or in death. 

On the 3rd of the 7th month, I set out to go to 
Oxford to see my son Samuel; and next day passed 
through the town of Schenectady, where there was 
a great stir, and abundance of people flocking in from 
all quarters. The bells were ringing and guns firing; 
and a little after I got through, the cannon roared 
like thunder, so that I was in danger of being thrown 
from my horse by his jumping. But I was preserved 
unhurt, and felt thankful to the great Preserver of 
men. Oh! the deep-rooted superstition, blindness' 
and idolatry of multitudes of people, who rejoice in 
this way for what has been brought about by the 
shedding of human blood and the loss of many lives? 
Yet those who thus glory therein profess to be fol- 
lowers of the peaceable Saviour who came to put an 
end to contention, and strife, and war; and command- 
ed his followers to love their enemies, and do good 
to them that hated them. 

6th. I reached Otego, and was at their meeting 
next day; where I met with our friends, Trip Mosher 
from Nine Partners, and David Haight from New 
Britain, on a religious visit to the westward. They 
had an appointed meeting in the afternoon, to which- 
I stayed. Here I met my brother Green Hall, and 
went with him to Oxford next day. Felt thankful 
8* 



90 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

on finding my son and his family in good health. — - 
After staying two nights, I set out with my brother 
and his wife, in order to find a Friend who removed 
from Easton last winter to somewhere in this wil- 
derness country. In riding about twenty miles, and 
making inquiry, we found them ; and the Friend was 
so much rejoiced at seeing us that she could hardly 
speak; having lived there several months in the new 
country, remote from Friends and among strangers. 
She told us she had heard of two other families of 
Friends, lately come to settle in the woods, about 
six miles off'; but as yet had seen none of them. So, 
leaving my brother and his wife to accompany her in 
endeavouring to find and visit them, I set out home- 
wards, and travelled through a new settled country, 
and down the Mohawk, by Mayfield, to my brother- 
in-law, John Hoxsie's, at Gal way. Next day, being 
first-day, attended the meeting at Greenfield, where 
I met with several Friends under appointment of our 
Quarterly meeting to visit Friends of this place. The 
day following, we had a select opportunity with them 
to good satisfaction, and I hope it was a strengthen- 
ing season to some of them. 

Having had it on my mind for some months past, 
to have a meeting about six miles northward of this 
place, and my friend Joseph Wilbur being willing 
to join me in the concern, we appointed one to be 
held next day. It proved to be a favoured and good 
meeting, in which gospel doctrine flowed freely to 
the tendering of many hearts. After which, I reach- 
ed Thomas Wilbur's at Saratoga, and was at their 
meeting next day; and thence home, where I, found 
my wife and family all well, — for which I felt a 
thankful heart. In this journey, I was from home 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 91 

two weeks, and travelled nearly three hundred 
miles. 

25th. Our meeting at Easton was a memorable 
one. Oh! how gloriously did the Father of all our 
mercies appear for our help and encouragement; al- 
though the number gathered was small, I suppose, 
by reason of its being a very busy time of year, or 
harvest time; yet I thought who would willingly 
miss of so great a favour as we then enjoyed! Who 
would not lose a little time out of their meadows or 
wheat-fields, if they could thus witness the presence 
of the Almighty owning them, to the tendering and 
cementing them together in his love? Read this, ye 
careless ones, and you that can easily stay at home 
for fear your work may suffer a little, if you attend 
meetings in the middle of the week, or other days 
when you usually labour. Doth not the heavenly 
riches that is gained by giving up the time at such 
seasons as these, fully compensate for the time so 
spent; even although it may sometimes happen, that 
some little loss of property may befal us? It appears 
to me, however, that he or she that prefers staying 
at home to work (instead of going to meeting) for 
fear of a little outward loss, may justly be termed an 
idol-worshipper. For whatsoever we set our heart 
upon that is outward and transitory, is our idol; and 
the sin of idolatry is said to be like the sin of witch- 
craft. And indeed what is more bewitching? I know 
by some experience that when I have, through un- 
watchfulness, given way to some small discourage- 
ment, or through a faithless disposition been induced 
to stay at home on a meeting day, I have generally 
found it harder to give up to go the next meeting 
day; — some greater obstacle would arise than before; 



92 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

or it would seem more difficult for me to leave home. 
So that to me it is a plain demonstration of falling 
away or declining from our first love; and then by 
degrees we become lukewarm, neither hot nor cold, 
and may continue so until the candlestick is removed 
and we left in total darkness. For when the Lord's 
merciful visitation is past and gone, we may cry for 
help, but in vain; the answer will be, Depart from 
me, ye workers of iniquity; I know you not. 

Oh! be ye warned, ye careless ones; be persuaded 
to more diligence, in order that ye may partake of 
Divine favour, and accept of his mercies before it is 
too late. 

26th. Set out from home, and went with Joseph 
Wilbur to attend the meeting at Thirman's patent; 
being under appointment from our monthly meet- 
ing: went as far as Queensbury, and lodged at Daniel 
Hull's. Next day, reached Charles Leggett's, where 
the meeting was held the day following. Some dul- 
ness was felt in the fore part; but the Lord's power 
prevailed to the refreshment of us all. In the after- 
noon we visited a Friend and his family, whose wife 
had lately had an operation performed on one of her 
eyes by reason of a cancer. She had some time be- 
fore been baptized in water, and was now under ex- 
ercise of mind. A religious opportunity with them 
proved to be a time of Divine favour, in which coun- 
sel flowed freely to the tendering and melting of us 
together; so that we gave God the glory on the bend- 
ed knee of body and mind in a most solemn manner. 
Oh! the wonderful goodness of the Lord to us that 
day! May my soul never forget it, even in my low- 
est and most dejected seasons. Amen. 

Next day we had a meeting among the Baptists, 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 93 

about four miles distance. The people were civil, 
and heard us patiently; but they appeared to be so 
fixed in their notions of water-baptism, election and 
reprobation, that I fear our labour will not have the 
desired effect. Yet we felt willing to leave the event 
to the Lord, as knowing it is he that doeth all in all 
that will ever redound to his glory. The day follow- 
ing, we had a meeting among the Methodists at the 
house of William Bond, in which I was silent; but 
Joseph was largely drawn forth in testimony and 
supplication, greatly to the tendering of the people. 
May it have a lasting effect on their minds. After 
this meeting we came to Queensbury, and lodged at 
the house of an old professor of Friends' principles. 
In the morning we had a sitting with the family, in 
which Joseph had close labour in order to stir them- 
up to a sense of their duty. So we left them to the 
Lord, and went to see Mary Cornell, widow of the 
late Daniel Cornell, who lived with her son Benjamin. 
Although it was the height of wheat harvest, and he 
had a large number of men at work in the field, who 
were very noisy, they being of the looser sort, and 
he not a member among Friends, yet he readily con- 
sented to sit with us to wait on the Lord, who was 
graciously pleased to break in upon our minds, so 
that notwithstanding the noise and hurry without, 
we became calm and composed, as tho' all was still. 
A blessed time we had together, in which Joseph 
was led along by degrees into much counsel and ad- 
vice, to the tendering of us all. 

8th mo. 1st. We attended the meeting at Queens- 
bury, it being their preparative meeting, and had 
some service therein to satisfaction. After which 
we set off home, and reached Joseph Wilbur's that 



94 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

night; and next day I arrived at my own habitation, 
having been absent one week. 

29th. Have had a very low time of late, in which 
I sometimes was almost ready to think I had lost 
sight of my good guide; then again something has 
occurred which strengthened me to persevere in the 
faith. 

9th mo. 8th. Greatly favoured in public testimo- 
ny at the meeting held at Newtown, among the few 
Friends of that place, and some Methodists and Bap- 
tists. Thanks be to God forever and ever. 

10th mo. 24th. It hath been my lot of late mostly 
to sit in silence in our meetings at Easton; yet I have 
often felt the sweet influence of Divine goodness to 
flow in my mind, greatly to my satisfaction; convin- 
cing and confirming me that silent meetings, right- 
ly improved, are the best meetings, and most to the 
real benefit of religiously exercised minds: because 
the Lord himself is the alone teacher, and his teach- 
ings are so plain and easy to be understood, (being 
the immediate impressions made on the mind by his 
Divine love and power) that they are not soon erased, 
and always produce an evidence of their truth that 
cannot be denied without offering violence to the 
conscience. This inward Divine teaching shows each 
one what is to be done, and what omitted: but there 
is a certain something in us that ought to be guard- 
ed against, (I may call it self) which seems to sug- 
gest many things to us as difficulties; so that by giv- 
ing way to its serpentine reasonings, we are often 
hindered from doing what we are thus shown we 
ought to do. Here we find the cross, and when we 
stumble at it, so that we omit or neglect to do what 
is required of us, our minds do not feel solid peace; 



JOURNAL OP RUFUS HALL. 95 

but rather a doubt or condemnation, and fearful look- 
ing for of judgment from one that we cannot escape. 

But men and women may come together under a 
profession of spiritual worship, and by their beha- 
viour and sitting in meeting, may deceive one an- 
other: but it is impossible for them to deceive God, 
for he seeth the most hidden recesses of the heart. 
When people come to meeting, and sit with their 
heads hanging down so that their chin touches their 
bosom, with their eye lids drawn together, and per- 
haps nodding, the prospect is gloomy indeed: but 
they are not very likely to deceive others, for they 
openly show that their case is a deplorable one. — 
Again, when we discover persons sitting upright and. 
still, with cheerful but listless countenances that show 
they have little or no inward, religious concern of 
mind, truly I have thought their state was little bet- 
ter than the former. Although they may deceive 
men, yet they cannot deceive the Searcher of hearts, 
who requires a living exercise of soul in order to 
worship him acceptably. 

There are those who are sometimes tried with 
drowsiness, stupidity and dulness in meetings, but 
who manifestly wrestle and strive to overcome this 
heavy disposition, without giving out: of these there 
is hope of their overcoming and doing well, notwith- 
standing it may be very trying and exercising to 
them; and such ought to be encouraged to persever- 
ance, not giving out in the time of this close conflict. 
As long as pain is felt, there certainly must be some 
life; and while they continue to struggle against this 
weakness and to desire to feel the life, the Lord will 
not leave them; but in his own time he will in mercy 
come to their relief, and give them a crown of victo- 



96 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

ry and glory, if they hold out to the end in faithful- 
ness. 

But there is a more encouraging state, when peo- 
ple sit still and upright, with lively countenances, 
indicating that their minds are favoured with the 
Divine presence, or a right exercise, which animates 
them so that when they observe any in the above- 
mentioned conditions, they are filled with pity and 
tender compassion for them. This often leads to 
fervent desires that they may be aroused to a sense 
of their state, — and that such as have some sense of 
their own tried condition, may continue to wrestle till 
the day-spring from on high, or " the sun of righte- 
ousness arises with healing in his wings," and so 
animates and strengthens them as to give them the 
victory. These are the genuine products of rightly 
exercised minds. They are not only made joyful in 
the house of prayer; but are filled with substantial 
peace which the world can neither give nor take 
away. They are so filled with love and good will 
to all, that ardent desires are felt for all mankind, 
that they may experience the living sense and bene- 
fit of spiritual worship in and for themselves. Oh! 
how truly helpful and strengthening to one another, 
are such spiritual worshippers! At the same time 
they feel their own strength to be renewed in the 
best sense, — this inward exercise of mind is often 
felt, as it were, to run from vessel to vessel, to the 
refreshing of many; so that sometimes whole meet- 
ings have been affected by it. Thus, through the 
honest persevering labour in spirit of a few, assisted 
by the influence of Divine Goodness, light and life 
arise and spread, and we are favoured to have good 
and profitable meetings. 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 97 

16th of 11th month. Silence is still my lot in our 
meetings, but the Divine presence is often witnessed, 
with openings of Truth very clear to my understand- 
ing; yet unless I feel the word of command to deliver 
them to the people, Oh! may I keep the word of his 
patience until he by his own power giveth tongue 
and utterance; so that when- I speak, it may be to his 
honour and praise. 

28th. At our meeting to-day was a marriage, which 
drew many people together, who were not accustom- 
ed to come to our meetings. But coldness of mind 
seemed to prevail— very little life w T as to be felt, and 
the people seemed uneasy, gazing upon one another. 
After awhile a Friend stood up and said a few words, 
which seemed to have little effect. Another follow- 
ed him, with a few expressions, to little purpose. He 
rose a second and a third time, before life rose into 
dominion, and the flock were watered. Thanks be 
to the heavenly Shepherd forever; for it was all of 
his mercy. 

In the 12th month, I set out with my wife to visit 
my son at Oxford, and other relations; and we thought 
right to fall in with Friends' meetings by the way: 
Were at Duanesburg on a first-day, in which I was 
largely led forth in testimony with clearness of ut- 
terance, to my own satisfaction and thankfulness to 
the great Helper of his faithful children. We stay- 
ed about a week with my brother and son at Oxford, 
and on the first day of the year 1800, set out for Nine 
Partners and Beekman-town, to visit our ancient fa- 
ther and mother, Hoxsie. On our way, we attended 
Coeymans 5 meeting on first-day, where I had good 
service. That night we lodged at Levi Hoag's; he 
and his wife were both public Friends. In the even- 
9 



98 JOURNAL OF RUFIlS HALL. 

ing, I went with them to see a sick man who was 
low in spirit, having fallen under great discourage- 
ments. He was not a Friend, but had requested a 
visit. When we came to the house many of his neigh- 
bours were there, and he desired we would have a 
sitting with him. They soon all became still, and a 
solemn silence seemed to cover our minds. Levi's 
wife, Hannah Hoag, was very much favoured in a 
sweet and consoling testimony, to the tendering of 
most or all present: after which Levi appeared, much 
to my satisfaction. All the time since I came into 
the house, my mind was much occupied in thought- 
fulness about the two baptisms, — that of water and 
that of the Spirit; they being of two different na- 
tures, the first having no more power in it than to 
cleanse the outside only; while the second, or that 
of the Spirit, was so efficacious as to cleanse the in- 
side, or heart of man, of its pollutions: and this be- 
ing made clean, the outside would consequently be 
clean also. So that it appeared to me beyond all 
doubt, that to be baptized in water must be a need- 
less thing in itself; the spiritual baptism being so ef- 
ficacious and powerful that it needs no outward help 
of any thing, nor any substitute in its stead. As this 
subject occupied my attention, it increased in weight 
and clearness, till the word of command came to de- 
liver it to the people. So I spoke as things opened 
to me on these subjects, and felt perfect peace in my 
labourSc As we were returning to Levi's, his wife 
told me that nearly all the neighbours present were 
Baptists: at which information I could but marvel at 
the Divine goodness to me; for I was a total stranger 
to them all. 

In three days travelling, we reached father Hox- 



JOURNAL OF RTJFTJS HALL. 99 

sie's, to our mutual joy and comfort. On our way, 
we called to see our ancient friend Mary Griffin, 
aged about ninety years. She appeared to be lively 
and green as to the sense of religion; she having 
been a minister well esteemed for many years. We 
found her engaged at her spinning wheel; and she 
told us she commonly rode to meeting twice a week, 
it being about three miles: which I thought to be 
remarkable, considering her great age. So we visited 
our friends and relations several days, and attended 
meetings at Oswego, in which I had some service to 
my own satisfaction. Thence we returned home on 
the 25th of 1st month, 1800; having travelled nearly 
four hundred miles on this journey. 

2d mo. 2d. A low time, both of body and mind — 
so lame with the rheumatism that I can scarcely 
walk, and my mind much shut up. Sometimes I am 
almost ready to think my labours in the ministry are 
nearly at an end, especially at home in our own meet- 
ing. Yet it seems singular to me; for I think it rea- 
sonable to suppose that they who preach the gospel 
abroad, ought to do the like at home, at their own 
meetings, and amongst their neighbours and friends. 
But of latter time, I find no openings in that way, 
and so say nothing in that line at home. 

3d mo. 30th. I am still altogether silent in public 
meetings. I trust it is in the wisdom of the great 
Master, that I am led into this unusual dispensation; 
though I cannot find out the meaning of it. Perhaps 
the Lord is teaching me to be attentive to his shut- 
tings as well as his openings; for I think I see with 
great clearness, that there is as much need to observe 
the one as the other. But notwithstanding my being 
so shut up as to public service, I have been much 



100 JOURNAL OF RTJFTJS HALL. 

favoured in meetings with the sweet inflowings of 
Divine love, so that I have thought my state some- 
what like that of Mary's sitting at the feet of Jesus, 
hearing his words. But, sometimes when sitting thus 
quietly in meetings, I have seemed to hear some- 
thing like a complaining of others, or have felt an 
exercise resembling this, when meetings have been 
held in silence, (and I have believed it arose from 
people's not being deep enough in their minds) 
" Lord, speak to my brother (or sister) that they 
help me." How many there are who are either so 
ignorant, so outward, or so unfaithful to what they 
know, that when sitting in meetings for Divine wor- 
ship, and feeling it difficult to come at any thing that 
truly nourishes the soul, for want of more depth and 
patience, they grow impatient, and like Martha, are 
ready to say in their hearts, " Lord, bid some of the 
ministers say something that may help me, and raise 
more lively impressions and good feelings in my 
mind." But it is my full belief, that the Lord in his 
wisdom often rebukes such impatient, superficial 
ones, by shutting up the spring of gospel ministry 
from them for a time, in order that they may be- 
come more and more thirsty, so as to become will- 
ing to leave all caring for outward help, and seek for 
the living fountain-head and well-spring of Divine 
life in their own hearts and minds. " Martha, Mar- 
tha, thou art careful and troubled about maoiy things; 
but one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that 
good part which shall not be taken away from her." 
About this time, I had some very close trials in 
relation to some of my outward affairs. A certain 
person owed me some money, and I being in want 
of it, asked him for it several times. At length, he 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 101 

refused, and gave me abusive language; so that I 
sometimes thought of sueing him at the law, as he 
was well able to pay the demand. But as I had never 
done such a thing in all my life up to this my fifty- 
sixth year, it was a very great trial to think of it; so 
at times I concluded I would not do it, if I lost the 
debt: — then again I thought it should be the last re- 
sort for the recovery of what was justly due to me. 
However, by the exercise of patience and prudence, 
a way at length turned up, by which the matter was 
settled without applying to the law. Thus I was en- 
abled to get through that difficulty better than I ex- 
pected, which I regard as a particular favour from 
the hand of Divine goodness, for which I wish ever 
to be grateful. 

16th of 5th mo. I set out from home in order to 
attend our Yearly Meeting at New York, and rode 
about sixteen miles; next day travelled more than 
forty miles to Hudson, where we stayed Friends* 
morning meeting, in which I had good service. In 
the afternoon we rode about fourteen miles, and lod- 
ged at a Friend's house. Next day we went about 
forty miles to my father-in-law's; and being much 
tired with riding, we rested there one day: then my 
brother-in-law, Ladowick Hoxsie, set out with us to 
go to the Yearly Meeting, and we went in a wagon 
about eighteen miles to Poughkeepsie, where we went 
on board a sloop, and had a fine short passage of sev- 
enteen hours down the river, about eighty miles to 
New York. We arrived in that city on the 22 A. of 
5th month, being in all fifty-six passengers and much 
crowded. 

On the 24th, began the Yearly Meeting of minis- 
ters and elders, which was a favoured meeting; as 
9* 



102 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

were also the meetings for worship next day. On 
second-day the Yearly Meeting for business began, 
and through the several sittings thereof, the Lord in 
his wonderful goodness and condescension sweeten- 
ed and enlivened, refreshed and united our spirits 
together: so that we were favoured to transact the 
weighty affairs of the church in much harmony and 
concord. The meeting held by adjournments till the 
2d of 6th month, by reason of the revision of the dis- 
cipline, and placing it in more regular order than it 
had been before. It was a memorable Yearly Meet- 
ing, that I trust will not soon be forgotten by many 
Friends. 

On my way home, I attended Little Nine Partners 
meeting on first-day, the 8th of 6th month. The case 
of Jonah when he fled from the presence of the Lord 
and took shipping for Tarshish, came livingly before 
me, and I had to labour thereon in a testimony which 
was very close and pointing; so much so that I was 
almost ready to doubt my own feelings, not knowing 
that there was any occasion of such doctrine among 
them: But I was favoured to get through, and felt 
great peace of mind, as well as thankfulness to the 
Preserver of his dependant ones. After meeting, an 
elder told me that if I had known as much about 
Friends of that place as he did, I would hardly have 
ventured to deliver such plain doctrine; and that he 
was glad I was alive in the Truth. I desired him to 
say no more, as I knew nothing about them, and that 
it was sufficient for me that I felt perfect peace in my 
labours among them. 

22nd. In company with Joseph Wilbur, Zebulon 
Hoxsie and Reuben Baker, I attended a meeting ap- 
pointed at a place called Argyle, where there had 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 103 

never been a Friends' meeting held before: and al- 
though much ignorance of the usefulness of silent 
waiting, or the nature of spiritual worship, was ap- 
parent among the people, yet we had a free, open 
time in gospel labour to our satisfaction. 

24th. Although in preserving this account of my 
exercises in this life, I wish to avoid giving much 
detail of my outward affairs, yet as some things of 
this nature have occurred that seem evidently as les- 
sons of instruction in the best things, I am induced 
to acknowledge the hand of Divine Providence in 
ordering some of these outward matters, encouraging 
me to a continued trust in his goodness in all the 
transactions of my life, and leading me to be more 
and more attentive and obedient to the little, secret 
motions and intimations of his spirit in my own 
mind. Thus, I have found the exercise of patience 
and christian forbearance towards a person who for 
a while appeared unwilling to pay a just debt, at 
length induced him to come of his own accord, and 
in a friendly manner settle the account. But I may 
confess, that to have the inward eye so divinely 
anointed as always with clearness to see the Lord's 
way and time, is a great attainment, to which I have 
not at all times fully arrived. I see the danger of a 
selfish spirit, being secretly alive and working in us, 
especially where our temporal interest is concerned, 
that hinders our being wholly leavened into the hea- 
venly nature, so as at -all times clearly to discover 
what the Divine will is concerning us. 

26th. In our meeting to-day, a lively opening came 
before the view of my mind concerning the pool of 
Bethesda and its five porches; the multitude of im- 
potent folk that lay in them, waiting for the troubling 



104 JOURNAL OF RTJFTJS HALL. 

of the water; and the case of one that had lain there 
diseased a long time already, without being healed: 
also the certain season of the angel's descending to 
move the waters, and the healing efficacy of first 
stepping in after the troubling of the pool. By 
which it would appear that if any stepped in too 
soon, or before the proper time, they would expe- 
rience no more healing virtue than by too long a de- 
lay, or neglect of stepping in after the divine visita- 
tion. While I mused on these openings, and felt the 
command to deliver them to the people, being just 
about to rise on my feet, another Friend stood up to 
speak, with seemingly good matter at first; but he 
soon laboured so heavily as apparently to lose the 
life, and the meeting also seemed to become lifeless. 
By the time this communication was ended, the time 
of the meeting was so far spent, that 1 concluded to 
omit delivering the testimony of my opening, and 
the meeting broke up. But I soon saw that I had 
missed the right time in not rising a little earlier; 
which might have been the means of preserving life 
in the meeting, and preventing my coming from it 
dissatisfied in my mind, and blaming no body but 
myself. By leaving this memorandum, I wish that 
others as well as myself, may learn to time things 
right; for I am sensible that much is to be gained by 
doing things in their proper season, as I also believe 
that much is lost by not timing things well; so that 
sometimes they had better never be done at all, than 
done in the wrong time. 

7th mo. 3rd. In our meeting, being much exercis- 
ed in spirit, I was enabled to discharge my duty in 
sounding forth an alarm to the careless and lukewarm 
who had secured themselves as in the sides of the^ 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 105 

ship, and were fallen asleep; and therefore knew no- 
thing of the trouble and anxiety which the true la- 
bourers felt for their safety and deliverance. This 
kind of sleepers, I believe, may frequently be found 
among people whose outward eyes may be open: and 
to these I was concerned to call, in order to awaken 
them out of that careless and lethargic state of se- 
curity, that they might arise and call on the living 
God. 

22nd. It seems right that I should number the fa- 
vours I receive. In our meeting last fifth-day, I had 
a lively opening, in which I was favoured with a liv- 
ing testimony of encouragement to such as were 
earnestly engaged and rightly devoted to the ser- 
vice of Truth. I was led to set forth the precious- 
ness of time, and the manner of its being meted out 
to us, a breath at a time; — that as the gracious Giver 
of every good and perfect gift, in his wisdom thus 
distributes it, so we are in duty bound to make a 
right use of it; and especially to dedicate a part of it 
to him in solemn spiritual worship. 

Another favoured opportunity I had lately at Pitts- 
town meeting; wherein my mind was opened upon 
the subject of the discourse of Jesus with the Samari- 
tan woman at Jacob's well. As I kept close to the 
light, I was enabled to see and understand more deep- 
ly the instructive nature of the truths declared on 
this occasion. Oh! what shall I render unto the 
Lord for all his benefits towards me! My tongue is 
too short to declare his goodness, my pen too slen- 
der, — and I fear my heart is too unthankful for his 
abundant favours. Oh! let me forever lie low, as 
in the dust, and let God alone be exalted, saith my 

SOUl. 



106 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

24th. Having felt a little draft of love to attend 
the monthly meeting at Queensbury, and also the 
little meeting at Thirman-town, I set out from home 
alone, and went to Queensbury, though under some 
discouragement, partly on account of bodily weak- 
ness, and partly by reason of the smallness of the 
motion (as I thought) yet could not feel quite easy 
to stay at home. So in this littleness I attended the 
monthly meeting; which was a favoured time beyond 
my expectation: blessed be the Lord. But in the 
evening, my bodily weakness so increased that I was 
nigh giving out going any further; and went to bed 
under discouragement. When morning came I was 
still weak in body, but felt the same little motion to 
try to get to the meeting at Thirman-tovvn. Having 
the company of three or four Friends of that meet- 
ing, I set out and travelled slowly till we reached 
the place. Next day, being first-day, I attended the 
meeting; and when it was gathered, light sprang up 
far beyond my expectation, and it was a favoured 
time; perhaps as much so as I ever experienced. — 
Oh ! how freely and powerfuil} T did counsel and ad- 
vice flow through me from the Fountain of all good! 
After meeting my health seemed fully restored, and 
I rode near half way home over a rough mountainous 
roa.d, with a joyful and peaceful mind: and next day 
reached home much satisfied with my visit. I am 
renewedly confirmed, that there is often more in such 
comparatively small motions and intimations of love 
on the mind, than many may suppose; and I am per- 
suaded that much is lost by people not attending more 
carefully to them. 

9th mo. 6th. Having had it on my mind for some 
time to make a visit to some Friends that were new- 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 107 

ly convinced, residing in Kingsburg, Mayfield and 
Northampton, with some friendly people of different 
denominations in those parts, I set out in company 
with David Macomber and went to Newtown. Next 
day, being first of the week, 1 was at their meeting 
and had good service in the ministry; thence we 
went to William Odell's at Balls-town; and he agreed 
to meet and accompany me in the visit. Sth. Went 
on to Isaac Gaige's at Duanesburg, where we visited 
a person who was to appearance near her end with 
the dropsy. W T e then travelled through Otsego to 
see my son at Oxford, and thence about eighty-five 
miles to Levi Seymour's at Kingsburg, where Wil- 
liam Odell met us. Next day, the ISth, w r e had two 
meetings; 19th, had two other meetings in Mayfield 
and Northampton. Next day we were at two meet- 
ings, one of them in Providence. All these were 
favoured opportunities, the gospel being freely de- 
clared among the people, who were of different so- 
cieties, yet there appeared great openness among 
them to hear Truth declared. Some things were 
treated in a very plain, close manner, particularly 
the dangerous doctrine of " once in grace, ever in 
grace;" and the formality of preaching, praying and 
singing in man's will and time. But a number of 
them are so much stirred up in their minds, and their 
understandings so enlightened to seethe insufficiency 
of such formal performances and the absurdity of such 
doctrines, — that they are willing to forsake them and 
seek for something more certain ana 1 permanent. 

We then had meetings at Galway, Greenfield, and 
private houses, among Friends, Baptists and Metho- 
dists; in which our labour went to search out their 
old sandy foundations, and buildings of wood, hay 



108 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

and stubble; and to turn their attention to build on 
the Rock of ages, and embrace the everlasting Truth. 
But there is a wide field for abundance of labour, and 
skilful labourers are needed for the task. Oh! that 
all who travel abroad and appoint meetings, may 
dwell low, and sit as at the king's gate, like Morde- 
eai, waiting for the deliverance of the Lord's righ- 
teous seed. These humble waiting Mordecai's, and 
those Esthers that put their lives as in their hands, 
and go forth under a sincere concern for the enlarge- 
ment of the borders of Zion, will not only in due 
time witness the holding forth of the sceptre of Di- 
vine love, but will be made instruments for carrying 
on the Lord's work, and be received into favour 
with the King of kings. 

Taking Saratoga monthly meeting on our way, 
we reached home the 24th; having travelled about 
tw r o hundred and eighty miles, and attended eleven 
meetings. 

10th mo. 5th. Nathan Hunt from Carolina attend- 
ed our meeting at Easton, also John Hull from New 
York. They both appeared in testimony, and it was 
a remarkably favoured time. Nathan very clearly 
set forth the necessity and advantage of silent wait- 
ing, in order to be qualified for the performance of 
our religious duties; and also the insufficiency of all 
preaching, praying and singing in our own will and 
time; being at best but mere formality. Many of 
other societies were present, and all were quiet and 
apparently well satisfied. A solemn covering was 
felt over the meeting; may the glory be ascribed to 
God forever and ever. 

16th. We had the company of our ancient friend, 
Reuben Palmer, from Nine Partners, and Augustine 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 109 

Titus from Oswego, at our meeting. They were both 
favoured with short but lively testimonies among us; 
in which the cementing union was felt to the refresh- 
ing of our souls together. Thus, the heavenly Father 
deals bountifully with his depending children; and 
Oh! that we may ever remember his favours, and 
not doubt or repine in seasons of scarcity or drought, 
which he permits to come upon us for the trial of our 
faith and patience. 

23rd. We had another refreshing season at our 
meeting, under the ministry of our beloved friend, 
Sarah Lundy, from New Jersey. Oh! how freely 
did gospel doctrine flow from her lips, to the tender- 
ing of us all! May the opportunity never be forgotten 
by us. 

12th mo. 28th. Almost another whole year has 
passed away; during which I have had divers trials; 
but feel thankful that I have been preserved through 
them all. I consider that heat and cold, summer and 
winter, seed-time and harvest, spiritually as well as 
naturally, are all right, and, in the ordering of best 
wisdom, intended for the production of right and 
good things. In our meeting to-day, I was comfort- 
ed in the renewing of the well-spring of Divine good- 
ness in my own mind; and also through the ministry 
of our friend Thomas Titus, of Cornwall, who, being 
on a journey with several Friends to Upper Canada, 
was at our meeting — they being stopped here by 
reason of difficult travelling. 

3rd month 1st, 1801. Trials attend me of various 
kinds. Although I have of late had some good and 
lively openings in our meetings, and some satisfac- 
tory labours therein; yet in prospect of having a few 
meetings abroad, I have been almost discouraged by 
10 



110 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

reason of the state of my own family at home. I find 
cause for much exercise and concern on account of 
some of my children, to get them out to attend meet- 
ings, and to keep them within the bounds of plain- 
ness. I have many exercising thoughts on their ac- 
count, and whether I have not been too remiss here- 
tofore in keeping up my authority in the right line 
of family discipline; and some of my dear friends 
have hinted their fears on this account. But in all 
my afflictions, trials and conflicts on this subject, I 
cannot feel any real guilt chargeable on myself, un- 
less I have erred on the side of mercy or tenderness, 
so as not to keep the cords of discipline quite so tight 
as Truth would direct, through fear of being too se- 
vere. I find it needful for me to put my trust in 
God, who yet speaks peace to my soul, and endea- 
vour to steer my course according to his direction; 
hoping for better times, and that he will arise in his 
light and matchless love, and cause my children to 
see their great mistakes, so as to repent and return 
to the heavenly Father's house; which is my hearty 
desire and prayer for them. 

12th. At our monthly meeting, the Lord was evi- 
dently felt among us to our great comfort and satis- 
faction. I had renewedly to believe that we were 
a favoured people; and to remind Friends how and 
by what means our religious society was first raised 
up to be a separate people; namely, by and through 
the power of God; and that it was by and through 
the same power that we had been preserved as a 
people to the present day. I also had to hold up to 
view, that it is the same Divine power which must 
still preserve us; that although we now live in a day 
of ease, as to outward persecution, and have not the 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. Ill 

like trials to go through as our forefathers had, — yet 
the enemy of our peace was the same; so that we 
have as much need to take good heed to the Divine 
light in our minds as they had in those days of great- 
er outward trials. For if we are preserved to be a 
people to the Lord's praise, it must be by keeping 
our ranks in righteousness as our forefathers did, in 
order that we may go forward in the regular order 
of Truth towards a further reformation. 

4th mo. 8th. What shall 1 render unto the Lord 
for all his benefits towards me? Notwithstanding my 
weaknesses and failures, I have felt the heavenly 
Master owning me at times with his enlivening pre- 
sence, so that I have been enabled in his light and 
life, I trust, to bear public testimony to the Truth 
among my brethren and sisters, with that inward 
satisfaction and peace of mind which my soul truly 
desires above all things to feel. It is also humbling 
to my mind to consider that the Lord of all good is 
still favouring me in outward as well as spiritual 
things; for it is but a few days past, since a fire was 
discovered near evening within three or four feet 
of my barn, among some dry manure. There was 
abundance of straw very near it and the wind high; 
but it was put out by two boys that happened to see 
it, before it had begun to spread. It was supposed 
to have originated from the wad of a gun that had 
been fired at a mark on the side of the barn some 
hours before. It seemed right to record this awful 
circumstance, as a caution and admonition to myself 
and others to be very careful of suffering guns to be 
fired near such buildings, even though ever so much 
care should be taken to guard against such accidents. 
This marvellous preservation of my barn from the 



112 JOURNAL OP RUFUS HALL. 

ravages of fire, excites me to the renewed inquiry, 
What shall I render to the Lord, for all his benefits 
conferred on me? Can it be any thing short of hum- 
ble, unreserved obedience to all his requirings? For 
it is by and through him and his merciful, providen- 
tial dealings with me, that I have my being and well- 
being here. 

10th, was our preparative meeting, in which life 
arose and light shone triumphant over all, to the en- 
couraging of some of our minds. It being the time 
of answering the Queries, some things were close- 
ly searched into; particularly that of paying a tax, 
which many Friends thought was principally for the 
support of warlike purposes; such as building forti- 
fications, ships of war, &c. But this tax being so 
blended with other taxes and duties, made it diffi- 
cult: some Friends not being free to pay it, as be- 
lieving it inconsistent with their religious principles 
and testimony against war; while others had paid it. 
A concern was felt that Friends might be preserved, 
so as to act with consistency therein. It was under- 
stood by some that Friends in New York generally 
paid it; and it was alleged that formerly while we 
were under the king of England, we had to answer 
a query in relation to not defrauding the king of his 
dues; and they could see no difference in this respect 
between king and congress; and that therefore we 
might pay those taxes now as well as formerly. On 
the other hand, it was stated that the ground on 
which we were raised to be a separate people or so- 
ciety, was that of tender scruples of conscience; and 
it was on this ground, or principle of Divine light, 
that the reformation had always stood, and must still 
stand, if it is carried on; and therefore that Friends 



JOURNAL OP RUFUS HALL. 113 

would not do well to look to New York or London, 
nor even to former customs, for direction; seeing we 
had to go forward and not backward, nor yet to stand 
still with the work of reformation. As to defraud- 
ing any of their dues, there was no such thing in the 
case; for to defraud was wilfully, obstinately, or craf- 
tily to detain a thing from the right owner. But in 
this case there was neither will, obstinacy, nor craft; 
but purely a tender scruple of mind or conscience; 
and therefore it ought to be attended to, and Friends 
should not desert the ground (now in a day of ease) 
on which their predecessors stood, and nobly main- 
tained it in the times of hot persecution. 

On the whole, it appeared to me that the weighty 
concern of the meeting was against paying the tax; 
but as the subject was new to some, and others were 
not altogether clear, by reason of long custom, so as 
to see the inconsistency of paying it, — it was thought 
best to let every Friend act according to their free- 
dom therein. I was truly thankful that Friends were 
preserved in such unity and harmony, that I did not 
discover any hardness towards one another; but all 
spoke with coolness of mind, and none showed any 
symptoms of heated zeal; which is too often the case 
in such matters. 

6th mo. 17th. Although my hands as well as my 
mind, for several weeks past, have been employed 
in making this life more comfortable, yet the good- 
ness of my heavenly Master has not forsaken me. 
He has vouchsafed to shine in and upon my taber- 
nacle, at divers times of late, greatly to my encou- 
ragement, both in and out of meetings. These Divine 
favours have been conferred on me, sometimes by 
and through the feeling of his presence in silently 
10* 



114 JOURNAL OP RUFTJS HALL. 

waiting upon him; sometimes, through the ministry 
of others; and sometimes in feeling the gospel spring 
of life to flow in my own heart for distribution among 
my brethren and sisters at our own meeting. Oh! 
the streams of gospel love which I have felt thus to 
flow forth toward my friends, affording also to my 
own mind great satisfaction and peace. May I never 
forget these and many other favours dispensed to me 
by the Divine hand. 

19th. I went to Pittstown in company with Daniel 
Aldrich, of Uxbridge monthly meeting in New Eng- 
land, and Solomon Haight, of Nine Partners; and at- 
tended a meeting which they had appointed there, to 
my satisfaction. 

7th mo. 22d. This morning, I had a great struggle 
in my mind whether I had better go to the monthly 
meeting at Saratoga, or stay at home and secure my 
wheat, w r hich was nearly all standing in shock in the 
field, and it looked very likely to rain. But I soon 
concluded to go to meeting, and trust my wheat in 
the hand of the Lord: so my wife and I set out and 
rode a few miles, when it began to rain, and so tho- 
roughly wet the wheat that if I had stayed at home 
and attempted to draw it in, I should have got very 
little of it housed before the rain came on. In attend- 
ing the monthly meeting I had good satisfaction, al- 
though through some close labour in the discipline; 
for a matter had occurred among them which tended 
to break the unity, and to scatter and divide Friends. 
On this subject I felt constrained in love to labour 
with them, and was favoured to bring about a settle- 
ment, so that a number of Friends signified their 
unity therewith. It was the Lord's doings, and let 
all the praise be given to him. Next day, after visit- 



JOURNAL OF RUFTJS HALL. 115 

ing a sick man, we returned home; and by this time 
the weather had become so fair that my wheat was 
in better order to be put in the barn than it had be- 
fore been. So that through all my struggles and ex- 
ercises I thought I was the gainer at last; and I have 
made these remarks for the encouragement of any 
that may be tried in like manner. 

24th of 10th mo. Of late my mind hath been much 
occupied in repairing my house, which I thought ne- 
cessary for my own and family's comfort; this, with 
other perplexing cares of this life, hath been such 
that I have at times been afraid I was losing ground, 
as to my journey Sion-ward. Yet notwithstanding 
this, I have been generally favoured in our meetings 
with a sense of Divine goodness, and a hope that I 
am still owned by my great and good Master; for 
of a truth 1 do greatly desire to feel my mind set at 
liberty from the cares and cumbers of this life. 

Having had it on my mind for some time to make 
a visit to Friends and others in Johnstown, North- 
ampton and Wellstown, and having the unity of 
Friends therein, I set out and went to Ballstown. — 
Next day, being first of the week, I attended the 
meeting there, and had a full and satisfactory oppor- 
tunity, divers of the neighbours not of our society 
being present. At three o'clock in the afternoon, 
in company with my esteemed friend William Odell, 
I had another meeting about five or six miles north- 
ward, among Baptists and Presbyterians; in which 
William had good service, but I was silent. Thence 
went to my brother-in-law, Joseph Hoxsie's in Gal- 
way, and lodged there; and the following day had a 
meeting at New Providence: after which we rode 
about thirty miles to David IsdelPs in Wells-town. 



116 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

Next day, about ten miles farther in the woods, and 
visited some Friends' families, intending to have a 
meeting in that neighbourhood: but of this we were 
disappointed, by reason that most of the people had 
promised to help a man heap logs, and they were to 
have a dinner provided, with spirituous liquors, &c. 
The people were also disappointed; for they had 
been for some time (as we heard) wishing that some 
Friends would have a meeting amongst them. In 
discoursing with the man for whom the work was 
to be done, he was unwilling to have it put off till 
another day, because his hands were all invited and 
his victuals prepared; though he seemed sorry it had 
so happened. We had a good opportunity to hold 
up to him our testimony against such entertainments 
in which spirituous liquors were freely used. For, 
although it was a good and charitable thing in itself 
for neighbours to help one another, especially those 
who were sick or lame, and thus had got behindhand 
in their business, — yet it might all be done without 
spirituous liquors, mostly much better than with. — 
The practice of using those liquors as a drink, was 
also of bad consequence, not only because of the cost, 
which was considerable in a neighbourhood where 
they were mostly in low circumstances as new be- 
ginners in a wilderness, — but also by the free use of 
strong drink, men who are commonly of sober habits 
would become more noisy and talkative, and those 
of looser character with weak heads, oftentimes be- 
came intoxicated, so as to be deprived of their rea- 
son; to which ma)' be added, that from such customs 
men have gradually fallen victims to the use of spi- 
rituous liquors, till they have become mere sots. — 
We also told the young man, that as he was consid- 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 117 

ered one of the leading men in that settlement, he 
ought to consider and take heed how he set a bad ex- 
ample, or introduced bad practices among his neigh- 
bours. All which he appeared to take very well; and 
so we left him, and had an evening meeting in an- 
other part of the neighbourhood, which proved to be 
a good season for imparting gospel truths to the peo- 
ple. After which, we had a full opportunity of clear- 
ing our minds concerning the practice of furnishing 
men with spirituous liquors, and making such large 
gatherings in order to roll logs, and other kinds of 
labour; — setting forth the evil consequences of such 
a practice, as Truth then opened the way. All which 
seemed to be well received by them generally; and 
some expressed their great satisfaction with the re- 
marks, saying they had been uneasy with the cus- 
tom of giving strong drink, but it being generally 
practiced among them, they had thought they could 
not avoid it; but that now the inconsistency thereof 
had been so clearly set forth, they hoped they should 
in future be enabled to abandon the practice. 

On a review of this day's work, we felt great satis- 
faction, so that we could once more set up our Eben- 
ezer, and say, Blessed be the Lord who hath hitherto 
helped us. 

28th. Attended a meeting which we had previous- 
ly appointed at the house of a Methodist, in a neigh- 
bourhood where only one family of Friends lived: 
after which we rode back to a place in the bow of 
the river, where we had a meeting next day at an 
inn; and another in the evening at the house of a 
Baptist, to which came a priest (as we were after- 
wards informed) who was travelling about the coun- 
try to look for a place to settle himself as a minister. 



US JOURNAL OP RUFUS HALL. 

I was particularly led to set forth the true and false 
ministry, in illustrating the text, " The stone which 
the builders rejected is become the head of the cor- 
ner:" and after I had done, dear William handled 
the same subject, I think near an hour, to my admi- 
ration. The great solemnity and satisfaction that 
evidently attended the minds of the people, were 
truly encouraging; praises be to the Lord, for it was 
all his doings. 

30th. Being disappointed of a meeting we expect- 
ed to have at a Friend's house about six miles off, 
we went on to Levi Seymour's, in the borders of 
Johnstown, where a little meeting of Friends was 
kept up; which we attended the next day to a good 
degree of satisfaction. That evening we came to 
the house of our friend John Macomber at Gal way; 
whence, next morning William Odell went home, 
but I attended Gal way meeting on first-day; in which 
I had a close, exercising time, but through honest la-, 
bour, obtained considerable ease of mind. The way 
not opening to proceed further at present, I return- 
ed home the 2d of the 11th month; where I remain- 
ed, experiencing some trying seasons, but others more 
favoured and open, till the 19th of 1st month, 1S02; 
when, not feeling clear of several places within the 
verge of Saratoga monthly meeting, I left home, and 
was at the select preparative meeting there. Next 
day, was at their monthly meeting, and the day fol- 
lowing, William Odell again joining me, we rode to 
Greenfield, and had an evening meeting at the house 
of our friend Elihu Anthony. 22d, had two meet- 
ings to good satisfaction; and next day attended one 
at Friends' meeting house in the south part of Green- 
field, which was a trying season. It seemed as if the 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 119 

spirit of the world had almost choked the good seed; 
but really it requires some care and skill to pluck up 
those weeds that are grown tall and strong, without 
endangering the good plants. 24th, being first-day, 
we were at Newtown meeting; after which, having 
a sitting in a Friend's family, we felt easy to return 
home. 

The 10th of 3rd month, William Odell and I set 
out on a religious visit, and were at Danby monthly 
meeting. Thence, about thirty miles, to a place call- 
ed Landgrove, on the Green mountains, where we 
had an evening meeting; and I thought it a good op- 
portunity, though no Friends reside here. Surely we 
have cause to be thankful to our good Master for all 
his favours. 13th. Had a meeting at Weston, at the 
house of our friend E^ekiel Pease, who with his wife 
were but lately convinced of the principle of Truth. 
It was a good meeting; but not feeling quite clear of 
the place, and next day being the first of the week, 
at the close of the meeting it was mentioned that we 
thought of staying over first-day, and would be glad 
to have another meeting with them near the centre 
of the settlement, if a suitable .place could be had. 
Upon which an aged man stood up and said, as they 
had dropped their meeting for three or four sab- 
baths on account of the inclemency of the weather, 
he thought likely we might meet at their meeting 
place, which was a tavern. On which the owner of 
the house readily gave liberty; and although it was 
severe cold, with wind and deep snow, yet many of 
the people came together and behaved soberly; and 
I thought it a good meeting. That afternoon we tra- 
velled through deep snow about nine miles to Mount 
Holly, where only three Friends reside. Next day 



120 JOURNAL OF RTJFUS HALL. 

had a meeting there to good satisfaction. Thence, by 
way of Danby to Granville mid-week meeting; after 
which we rode through deep mud and water twenty- 
five miles to a friendly man's house in Argyle, where 
we lodged. On the 18th, reached Easton monthly 
meeting, and thence home. 

Sth mo. 27th. I have had a long season of mental 
dejection, with a sense of my own inability and no- 
thingness, without Divine aid and assistance. It is 
more than five months since I have opened my mouth 
in public ministry in our own meeting; but I have not 
been stupid or senseless; for I have had many good 
seasons, in some of which it hath seemed as if 1 was 
brought into the King's treasury, and beheld many 
good things there laid up in store for those that love 
him: but no liberty w T as given me to deal out any of 
them to my brethren and sisters. Here, I have found 
it a very necessary lesson to learn to abide in silence, 
even to a perfect willingness, as to any other quali- 
fication whatever. To talk of the necessity of being 
willing to be any thing or nothing, and even to be- 
come willing to be numbered among transgressors, — 
is an easy thing: but really to experience this will- 
ingness actually and effectually to be wrought in the 
heart and mind, is a deep and painful exercise, very 
difficult to be described by w r ords so as to give a 
perfect idea of it to another. 

Yet, during this time of silently attending our 
meetings at home, I went once in company with my 
dear friend William Odell as far as East-Hoosack, 
Hancock, Stephen-town, Petersburg and Pittstown; 
and we had meetings at each place to good satisfac- 
tion; the spring of the gospel ministry being opened 
in several of them through us both, to our comfort, 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 121 

and I trust to the edification of some of the people. 
Yesterday the spring of Divine life was again opened 
in me, so as to flow over our meeting new and fresh, 
to the comfort of some of my friends, and to my own 
peace. Thus hath the good Master, in his own time, 
shown his favours to my poor soul, so that I may 
again set up my Ebenezer, and say, Hitherto hath 
the Lord helped me. Amen. 

10th mo. 3rd. Set out with my son Peleg Hall, 
who was removing to settle at Oxford, and arrived 
there in four days. Hence, in company with my bro- 
ther Green Hall and my son Samuel, I went to Sher- 
burn, and had a meeting there at the house of George 
Briggs, his wife being a member among Friends. But 
when our meeting was proposed, he said he thought 
the Baptists and Methodists in that neighbourhood 
were so set in their own way of thinking, that they 
would not attend a Friends' meeting at any time, and 
especially on first-day; for their meeting was held in 
a large school house within a few rods of his house. 
On inquiring the usual time of their meeting, he said 
they met at three o'clock in the afternoon; so we 
appointed our's at eleven; giving the people an op- 
portunity of attending both, if they chose. When 
the time drew nigh, I mentioned about making some 
seats; but he was so faithless that he was hardly pre- 
vailed on to make any beside his chairs and beds in 
the house. However, the people so flocked in that 
he was obliged to bring a number of benches from 
the school house, and they crowded all full. It was 
a blessed opportunity; the people appeared solid, and 
my mind was opened and favoured to proclaim gos- 
pel truths among them. When the meeting broke 
up the people mostly went home, in a solid, thought- 
11 



122 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

ful manner; very few staying to the Methodist meet- 
ing in the afternoon. We returned well satisfied with 
our visit, to my son's at Oxford. 

I reached home on the 15th, and found my aged 
father very ill, occasioned by a bruise on his leg, and 
a few days after by a stroke of palsy. The wound 
on his leg mortified, and he departed this life the 
28th of the 10th month, 1802; aged eighty years 
and eleven months. 

On the 5th of the 1st mo. 1803, in company with 
my wife and John Gifford, a friend of our meeting, 
I set out in order to visit the families of Friends of 
Pittstown meeting. We visited twenty-one fami- 
lies, besides attending their preparative and first-day 
meetings. In the course of this service, some things 
occurred which furnished evidence to us that the 
work was owned by the great and good Master, and 
we had renewed cause to be thankful to him for his 
gracious dealings with us. 

In the 2nd month, as I was returning from our 
meeting, the concern and prospect of a second visit 
to Upper Canada, so impressed my mind that I could 
not refrain from shedding tears as we rode along; 
and I said in my heart, Lord, preserve me in every 
trial of every kind, so that I may not bring dishon- 
our to thy worthy name: for truly I am utterly un- 
able to do any good without thy Divine assistance. 

3rd mo. 3rd. In company with John Gifford, I at- 
tended the meeting lately allowed at Troy; which I 
thought was eminently favoured and owned by the 
great Master of our assemblies. At three o'clock in 
the afternoon, we had a meeting at Cooksborough; at 
which were many who had never been at a Friends' 
meeting, and they seemed unacquainted with the na- 



JOURNAL OP RUFUS HALL. 123 

ture of spiritual, silent worship, and also of true gos- 
pel ministry. But after hard travail of spirit, and 
deep conflict, life arose into some dominion, and I 
was enabled in good measure to relieve my mind of 
the burden that lay upon me. Peace and thankful- 
ness flowed in my heart toward the bountiful Dis- 
penser of help and strength. Next day, we had a 
meeting at the house of Francis Brocks, at Peters- 
burg. As I was speaking with a gentle current of 
gospel truth to the people, there came as it were a 
thick dark cloud over my mind, and I sat down very 
abruptly; believing I had followed my Guide as far 
as he led me and no farther, I felt peace, and a will- 
ingness to become any thing or nothing in the eyes 
of men, so that I might have the Divine approbation, 
which is a sufficient reward to the dedicated mind. 
On the 5th, we set out and rode ten or twelve miles 
towards home, but feeling our minds turned towards 
Friends at White Creek preparative meeting, we went 
there, and attended it to good satisfaction; and next 
day returned home. 

4th mo. 10th. As I sat in our meeting, my mind 
was made renewedly sensible of the wonderful good- 
ness of the Father of all our mercies, from whom are 
all our benefits both spiritual and temporal, derived. 
What a small portion of our time is entirely dedica- 
ted to his service, by way of paying homage to him 
in publicly worshipping him! And yet all good 
springs from him; for we have not even a faculty or 
capacity of doing any thing that is really good, of 
ourselves, or that will redound to his honour or praise; 
but all our ability to do good must spring from the 
God of all truth, justice, and mercy. Surely, our ob- 
ligation to him is very great; as we are created on 



124 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

purpose for his glory. In ruminating on this won- 
derful theme, I thought the day spoken of by the 
prophet had certainly come, when no man need say 
to his brother, Know the Lord; for that he would 
teach his people himself, and thus all might know 
him, from the least to the greatest. 

The 19th of the 5th mo. 1803, in company with 
my friend John Gifford, I set out on a visit to the 
meetings northward. On first-day, the 22d, we were 
at Granville meeting; in which John had good ser- 
vice, but I felt well satisfied to remain silent, as to 
any public testimony. Went thence to Ferrisburg, 
and were at Monkton preparative meeting; also had 
a meeting at Starksborough, in which we both had an 
open time in public testimony. 28th. Had a meeting 
at Montpelier; and not feeling clear of that neigh- 
bourhood, we had another near the same place, in 
which we had good service. After which we had a 
religious opportunity with a family who were much 
afflicted with sickness; and the Lord was pleased to 
furnish counsel and admonition, to the tendering and 
uniting of our souls together. The oil of the king- 
dom was freely shed abroad, and we were anointed 
therewith to our comfort and joy in the Lord. 

31st. We attended Ferrisburg monthly meeting to 
good satisfaction; thence, crossing lake Champlain, 
we came to Peru, in New York state, and lodged at 
the house of David Harkness. Next day, were at the 
monthly meeting there; and the day following, set 
out for Grand Isle, (being an island in lake Cham- 
plain) and got to Cumberland Head; but the south 
wind blew so violently that we could not cross the 
ferry till next day, when we had a pleasant passage. 
The 6th, being first-day, we attended their meeting; 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 125 

many of the neighbours coming in, it was a precious 
season. In the afternoon, we had a meeting on the 
south part of the island, which was attended by about 
two hundred and fifty people, as it was thought; in 
which opportunity gospel doctrines flowed copiously, 
and it ended in solemn prayer to the Lord of glory. 
I think I have not been sensible of many more fa- 
voured seasons. Praised be the holy name of my God 
forever; for he is eternally worthy, saith my soul. 

We lodged at Jonathan Griffith's, whose parents 
lived with him; his father being eighty-nine, and his 
mother ninety -two years old; and both able to walk 
about. They appeared to be so loving and innocent, 
that I thought they nearly resembled in mind two 
little innocent children. Desires were raised in my 
heart that I might attain to such a state of mind; for 
I was induced to believe all was well with them, and 
would be, let them die ever so soon, or ever so much 
at unawares. I thought I saw in them a plain instance 
of the advantage of making our peace with our God 
in the time of health and strength. 

On leaving the island, we rode the sand-bar; it be- 
ing about one mile over, and the water in some places 
about mid-side deep to a common horse. As it was 
windy, we got somewhat wet by the swell of the water; 
but landed safely, and proceeded to our friend Elihu 
Hoag^s at Starksborough. On the Sth, had a meeting 
at Lincoln, where there is a little company of tender- 
spirited Friends, who live in sweet harmony together. 
Soon after I sat down, I thought, Surely the Lord 
hath a righteous seed in this place; and while view- 
ing it in my mind, John Gifford arose with these 
words, "Surely the Lord is in this place, and I knew 
it not." From which he drew much comfort and en- 
11* 



126 JOURNAL OF RUFTJS HALL. 

couragement for the people. After which, I had an 
open time in public testimony, and the meeting end- 
ed in solemn prayer to the God of all our mercies. 
It was indeed a highly favoured meeting; and closed 
our visit in those northern parts. Thence we pro- 
ceeded homewards, attending Danby monthly meet- 
ing on the way, and had an appointed meeting about 
two miles eastward of that place, which was large, 
and ended well to the satisfaction of the people gen- 
erally. Here we parted in tender love and good 
unity; John Gifford going northward, with Stephen 
Rogers to accompany him, and I home, where I 
found my dear wife and family all well. In this 
journey I was absent upwards of three weeks, tra- 
velled about four hundred miles, and attended thir- 
teen meetings. 

The 22d of the 6th month, our daughter-in-law, 
Lois Hall, departed this life, after about an hour's 
illness; leaving a husband and three small children. 
This was a trying circumstance to us all, and parti- 
cularly so to my son, to be so suddenly deprived of 
an affectionate and beloved wife. She was indeed a 
goodly, well-minded woman, but of a weakly consti- 
tution. The consideration of the many vicissitudes 
of human life, is humbling: for although we may 
promise ourselves many comforts and much satisfac- 
tion as we pass along through time, and we may also 
be very desirous of being divinely directed in ma- 
king choice of the things of this life, in order that 
we may have the greater confidence in the enjoy- 
ment of them — yet after all, we shall find that asser- 
tion of the wise king to be true; "Vanity of vanities; 
all is vanity." Seeing this is the case with all tran- 
sitory things, how needful it is to seek something 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 127 

that is more permanent, even a habitation whose 
builder and maker is God. 

9th mo. 18th. Trials and exercises still attend me; 
for although I have been renevvedly impressed with 
a concern to make another visit to Upper Canada, 
and went so far as to lay the matter before our month- 
ly meeting, — yet, feeling an unexpected stop in my 
mind, I mentioned it to Friends, and the case was 
postponed. Another trial came on me about the same 
time concerning selling my farm, and removing to a 
place called Mayfield. This so wrought on me that 
I saw no better way to dispose of it, than to lay it 
before the monthly meeting. After Friends had so- 
lidly weighed the subject, they thought best to leave 
me at my liberty therein: but soon after this, I met 
with a stop in that case also. What may be the issue 
of these trials, I know not; but I believe the Lord 
will have a tried people; and why should I flinch at 
my lot and portion? Doubtless, I must learn to dis- 
cern the Lord's shuttings as well as his openings; 
for it is as needful and useful to know the one as the 
other. May I still be preserved so as to keep in the 
strait and narrow way that leads to life eternal, is the 
sincere desire of my soul. 

The 15th of the 12th mo. 1803, I again believed 
it right to lay before our monthly meeting, a revival 
of my concern in obedience to the Master's will, in 
respect to making a religious visit to Upper Canada; 
and Friends uniting therewith gave me a certificate 
for that purpose. Notwithstanding the great inabili- 
ty I feel of performing such a visit to the honour of 
the great Master, and the arduousness of the task in 
the heart of winter, being so far advanced in life that 
I am become tender as to bearing the cold, as well 



128 JOURNAL OF RUFTJS HALL. 

as the dangers and exposures in those newly settled 
countries, — yet remembering the many favours here- 
tofore received at the Divine hand, through faith I 
hope to be preserved so as to answer his requirings. 
And even if it should so happen that my natural life 
should be taken, I think I can truly say, the under- 
taking is in the simplicity and sincerity of my heart, 
with no other view than the honour of God and the 
peace of my own mind. Amen. 

The 31st of the 12th month, I left home in com- 
pany with my wife and son Zebulon, in order to 
proceed on my visit to Upper Canada. Next day, 
being the first of the year 1804, we attended meeting 
at Troy to good satisfaction. After meeting, parting 
with my beloved wife and son who returned home, 
I went to Joseph BreintnalPs in the town, and lodged 
there. 2d of 1st mo. I went to Albany, where I met 
my near and dear friend, William Odell, who joined 
me as a companion in part of the visit. Next day, 
we had a meeting at Coeymans, in which Truth had 
the victory; and one the day following at Rensselaer- 
ville, where we found it our duty to encourage the 
few Friends and others to abide in the true Vine, 
Christ Jesus. 5th. Attended meeting at Oak-hill, in 
which through honest labour I got some relief. In 
the evening, William's mare ran away and could not 
be found; so next day he went in search of her, and 
I attended a meeting we had appointed at Berne. — 
Through Divine assistance, the meeting was held to 
good satisfaction. Thence I went to Duanesburg, 
where William Odell met me again, to our comfort, 
having found his mare. After attending meeting 
there, we went on and had a meeting at Charles- 
town, and another in the evening; in both which our 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 129 

labours in the ministry tended to bring the people 
off from form to substance, and we had peace. 

10th. The weather being very cold, we travelled 
about twenty miles; and next day about eighteen, to 
Hardwick, where we had a satisfactory meeting in a 
school house. 13th. Had a trying meeting at Otego, 
where, after a Friend of that place had spoken a few 
words, I found it my place just to inform them that 
I believed, before they could build rightly, they must 
endeavour to remove the rubbish out of the way; in 
order that they might find and build on the right 
foundation, Christ Jesus. After long silence, William 
opened to them what the rubbish was, in a plain way, 
and showed them how to remove it, through faithful 
obedience. So, on the whole, the meeting ended 
well. Next day, in company with Nehemiah Sleep- 
er, we went to Unadilla, and had a meeting at Simeon 
Wilber's on the 15th, in which I was silent, but 
William had a free, open time in public testimony, 
much to my satisfaction. Next day, had a meeting 
at Oxford, in which I was engaged to arouse the 
careless to a serious consideration of their latter end. 

The 18th of 1st month, being a remarkable snow 
storm, with wind and cold, we spent in visiting the 
few families of Friends in Pittsfield, and having re- 
ligious opportunities with them to our satisfaction 
and peace. Lodged at Solomon Kilsey's; and next 
day travelled through deep snow to Plainlield, and 
had an evening meeting among the Baptists; in which 
we found it needful to endeavour to centre the peo- 
ple's minds on Christ the rock, the sure foundation. 
They seemed much afloat; so we had to cast our 
bread as upon the waters, hoping that it may be 
found after many days, and left the event to the 



130 JOURNAL OF RTTFUS HALL. 

Lord. Thence, having a meeting on the way at Ste- 
phen Hoxsie's in Brockfield, we travelled to Whites- 
town in a tedious snow storm, to the house of our 
friend Peleg Gifford, where we met with divers 
friends, and had a time of rejoicing in the Lord in a 
sitting together that evening, after a tiresome travel. 

21st Had a meeting at Peleg's, among the Pres- 
byterians who behaved soberly, becoming professors 
of religion, and I trust it was a profitable time to 
them, if they make a right improvement of it. In 
the evening, we had a meeting at Augusta, where the 
minds of the people seemed too much outward: in 
such cases, it requires best wisdom to direct, in order 
to draw them off from outward observances and out- 
ward things, and turn them to the true inward prin- 
ciple. I have found by experience in the light, that 
nothing can do it rightly but the baptizing power of 
Truth. As I am careful to dwell in the deeps, until 
I witness this power to open matter in my mind be- 
fore I offer to stand up to minister, and then to attend 
to it all along in the delivery of it, closing when that 
closes, — whether I say little or much, in this way I 
have always felt the best satisfaction. 

After this we had meetings at Pompey and Sem- 
pronius; in one at the latter place, the minds of some 
of the people appeared lender, and one young man 
publicly acknowledged, with much feeling and sincer- 
ity, that he had heard the Truth declared that day; 
and advised others to a faithful adherence to it, say- 
ing, " Fear not them that kill the body, and then can 
do no more; but rather fear him that has power both 
to kill and to cast into hell.' 9 Thence we travelled 
near sixty miles to the house of our friend, Abraham 
Lapham, at Palmyra, in the Genesee country; where, 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 131 

on the 26th, we attended the monthly meeting for 
Farmington (the meeting house having been lately 
consumed by fire.) Next day, we sat with a com- 
mittee on the subject of building a new meeting 
house; and though there were different opinions as 
to the spot where to set the house, yet a good degree 
of condescension prevailed, so that they entered into 
a subscription for the purpose, and were so spirited 
that six hundred dollars were subscribed on the spot. 
As this meeting is situated in an inland country, be- 
ing near two hundred miles from Albany, their mar- 
ket place, and many of the members new settlers, 
under disadvantages, it seemed right to preserve this 
account of their generosity, in hopes it may be a 
means of encouragement to others in similar cases. 

29th, and first of the week, we attended Friends' 
meeting held at Abraham Lapham's, in which Wm. 
Odell had a favoured, open time in the ministry. We 
had also an evening meeting at Barnabas Brown's, 
to good satisfaction. The next day, I parted with 
my beloved friend Wm. Odell, he feeling his mind 
clear, so as to return homeward. This parting very 
nearly affected me; having travelled together for four 
weeks in true unity, 1 felt the loss of so dear a friend. 
In the evening, I had a meeting at Farmington, in 
company with Caleb Macomber, a Friend of Palmy- 
ra, and we both had good service in the ministry. 
Blessed be the Lord for all his mercies and favours. 

31st. Went to Gilbert Howland's, and had a meet- 
ing there in the evening to good satisfaction, though 
I was silent, but Caleb Macomber had a fine open 
time in the ministry. Next day, had a meeting at 
Nathan Herrenden's, in which through deep exercise 
I found a way to ease my mind. The day following 



132 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

I attended the mid-week meeting at Palmyra, and 
an adjournment of Farmington monthly meeting; in 
each of which I had some service. 

3rd of 2nd month, in company with our young 
friend Eseck Aldrich, I set out for Upper Canada, 
and in three days reached our friend, Asa Schooley's. 
Here I rested a little, and on the 9th attended their 
mid-week meeting, in which I had to sound an alarm, 
and to speak in close terms; which was trying to me, 
being a stranger among them: yet I had a word of 
encouragement to the few sincere hearted ones. Next 
day Eseck Aldrich left me, intending to return home; 
he had been very kind and it was a trial to part with 
him: so I set out in company with Abraham Laing 
and reached Pelham that evening, about thirty miles. 
After attending the funeral of a child, and visiting 
my old friends, Jeremiah Moore's family, I was at 
their meeting on first-day; in which I was led to set 
forth what it was that had deprived men and women 
of happiness ever since the fall of Adam, to w T it: un- 
faithfulness to known duty: and that this would con- 
tinue to be the case as long as unfaithfulness was 
given way to. On the other hand, by faithful obe- 
dience to manifested duty, a state of happiness was 
attained. The meeting was solid and ended well. 
Next day, visited Joshua Gillams' family, and on 
the 15th, attended their mid-week meeting. 

On the 16th, in company with Peter Beckett, I 
set out for Yonge Street, and travelled through the 
wilderness, and over seven or eight remarkably sharp 
but short hills, as also very bad roads, about one 
hundred miles, to our friend Henry Widdifield's, at 
Yonge Street. I was much tired and unwell, but the 
kindness of our tender friends was so great that it 



JOURNAL OP RUFUS HALL. 133 

seemed to revive me in these small afflictions. The 
19th and first of the week, I attended their meeting, 
in which I was favoured with matter and utterance, 
to the tendering of some minds. Next day, visited 
some families, and the day following had a meeting 
at Samuel Lundy's, in a newly settled place, where, 
although I could see very few houses in the woods, 
yet many people came to the meeting, and it was 
held to good satisfaction. I was also at the mid- 
week meeting at King on Yonge Street, to my peace 
of mind. 

A circumstance occurred here, which ministered 
encouragement to me. As I was conversing with 
Friends about my journey to the Bay of Canty, or 
Adolphus-town, I perceived the subject was likely to 
be very trying to them; for they w T ere resolved I 
should not go alone, it being near two hundred miles 
and the roads bad, and Friends of the place all new 
settlers, and low in circumstances. I felt willing to 
undertake the journey alone, notwithstanding the 
length and badness of the road, and my age and in- 
firmities; but they would by no means consent to it. 
While we were thus conversing, Samuel Howe, a 
Friend from the Bay of Canty, came in, and informed 
us he would be ready to return in four or five days. 
At this I was truly rejoiced, to be thus provided 
with a suitable companion, beyond my expectation; 
and he offered to take me in his sleigh, which would 
be a great easement to me, as I had rode more than 
six hundred miles. I felt thankful for this favour, as 
believing a hand of Providence was in it. So on the 
24th, I set out with Samuel Howe, and went thirty 
miles to York, near which we lodged at George 
Playter's. Here Samuel was detained on some busi- 
12 



134 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

ness, so that I waited most of the next day for him 
to be ready to go with me. But as his business was 
of an outward nature, and no certainty of its being 
accomplished in several days, I set out alone and 
went to William Cornell's, where I waited till the 
29th, but Samuel did not come. So, notwithstanding 
all my hopes of having suitable company, I had to 
travel a long tedious journey alone. The first day, 
I travelled twenty-five miles through a lonesome 
woods, in one place ten miles through deep snow, 
and no road nor even a stick removed out of the 
way, over steep hills, and a large stream of water, 
where my mare had to jump down and up the banks. 
But at night I found a house where I lodged, and the 
people were very kind to me. 

3d mo. 1st. Continued my journey over very rough 
ways, still much uninhabited, but found good enter- 
tainment at night. Next day, came to my old friend 
and acquaintance, Peter Irish's, at a place called Hal- 
dimand. Here I stayed till first-day, the 4th, and 
had a meeting, in which my mind was much open- 
ed, and it was a precious opportunity. Next day ? 
in company with Peter and his daughter, travelled 
forty-two miles to West Lake, and the day follow- 
ing attended the preparative meeting there. Thence, 
in company with Philip Dorland and James Noxen, 
I went to Adolphus-town, and was at the preparative 
meeting there; in which I was engaged to tell them 
that it was the hungry that should be filled, and the 
poor in spirit that were entitled to the kingdom of 
heaven. Sth. Had a meeting at Grassy Point, in 
company with John Dorland, and James Noxen a 
public Friend of Adolphus-town. In this meeting I 
was largely opened in declaring gospel Truths to the 
people. 



JOURNAL OP RUFUS HALL. 135 

I stayed about a week in the neighbourhood, rest- 
ing and visiting some families, till the monthly meet- 
ing came on, which I attended, as also the select pre- 
parative meeting, and had some good service in both; 
the business being transacted in much brotherly love 
and concord. Thence I went to Kingston, and visit- 
ed the widow of my friend, Aaron Brewer, deceased; 
and attended the meeting held there, wherein thro' 
Divine favour, my mind was much opened and en- 
larged in public testimony. After meeting, in dis- 
course with some Friends and friendly people, the 
feeling sense of Divine goodness so covered our minds 
as to produce much tenderness. In the afternoon, 
had a solid opportunity in Mahlon Knight's family, 
and another in the evening at the widow Brewer's, 
where I parted with divers friends, in heart-tender- 
ing nearness. 

19th. Set out from Kingston, with Hugh McMul- 
lin, a Friend, and Lewis Cameron (a Methodist who 
accompanied me several hundred miles homewards) 
and we travelled that day about thirty miles, most of 
the way one continued wilderness, — a part of which 
we had to pass in the night, which made it seem very 
lonesome; and more so, by reason of the wild beasts 
that inhabited those parts. In the midst of this drea- 
ry wilderness, the wolves set up a hideous yell, seem- 
ing to be very near us; but we were preserved from 
them, and got safely through to a house, near ten 
o'clock at night, where we lodged on the floor till 
morning. Next day we reached Gershom Wing's, 
and had a meeting in the evening among Methodists, 
Baptists, and others, to general satisfaction. 

21st Feeling fully clear of those parts, I set out 
for home, with great peace and satisfaction in having 



136 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

endeavoured to answer what I thought required of 
me by my heavenly Master. Yet the thoughts of a 
long and tedious journey, through deep snow, and 
in many places long wildernesses uninhabited by 
any human beings, and also large rivers to cross, — 
appeared serious. In the afternoon, parted with Hugh 
McMullin, and crossing the great river St. Lawrence, 
we lodged at an inn. Next day, continued our jour- 
ney through the fifteen mile woods and the ten mile 
woods, and crossed a large river on the ice. 23rd. 
Travelled through the twelve mile woods, and cross- 
ed Black river on the ice. Next day, we went on the 
snow, that appeared to be about four feet deep on a 
level, and so hard that it bore our horses. Thus we 
came on to Galway the 27th of 3d month, and next 
day attended meeting there, which was a refreshing 
season in meeting again with my old friends. The 
29th, I set out for my own home, and came on very 
cheerfully, in hopes of seeing my dear wife and chil- 
dren that evening. But when I came to my friend 
Isaac Leggett's, he told me the North river could 
not be passed on account of the rottenness of the ice. 
I stayed till next morning, when I went down to the 
river bank, and found the ice mostly gone, so that I 
was ferried over without difficulty, and arrived safe- 
ly at home on the 30th of 3d month, to my own and 
family's joy and satisfaction. Thanks be to the Lord 
forever, for all his mercies and favours to me; and 
especially in this long and tedious journey; preserv- 
ing me through a long and hard winter; as well as 
through dangers, difficulties, and perils in the wilder- 
ness, — perils and dangers in crossing rivers on the 
ice, and riding in extreme bad roads. But through 
all, I have been preserved, and brought home in great 



JOURNAL OP RUFTTS HALL. 137 

peace of mind, as well as bodily health; having been 
from home in this journey three months, and travel- 
ed according to computation upwards of twelve hun- 
dred miles. 



After my return from Upper Canada, I felt a revi- 
val of the concern to remove to Northampton, within 
the verge of Gal way monthly and Mayfield prepara- 
tive meeting. Having thought for several years that 
it would be right to spend a part of my time there, 
as a member among those newly convinced people; 
and the w r ay now opening therefor, I laid the con- 
cern before Friends of Easton monthly meeting, and 
obtained their concurrence and certificate. After let- 
ting my farm in Easton to one of my sons, I set out 
with my family on the 17th of the 5th month, 1804, 
and in two days arrived at Northampton, at the place 
of our new residence, within one mile of where the 
meeting was held. 

7th mo. 1st. Since I have been here, I have steadily 
attended meetings as they came in course, in which 
my mouth and heart have been frequently opened, 
and I have been Divinely helped to sound forth the 
gospel in the life and power thereof, to the satisfac- 
tion and peace of my own mind, and I trust to the 
encouragement of the little flock settled here in these 
new parts of the world. Praised be the Lord for all 
his favours now and forever. 

On the 15th of the 10th month, I set out with my 
wife, in order to visit our aged father Hoxsie, at 
Beekman-town, and some others of our relations and 
friends. In the journey, we attended the meeting at 
Quemans, in which I had an open time in the minis- 
try. On the 30th we reached our father's house, and 
12* 



138 JOURNAL OP RUFUS HALL. 

next day were at their mid-week meeting. We also 
attended the Quarterly meeting at Nine Partners in 
the 11th month, at which was our friend Richard 
Jordan from Hartford in Connecticut. We were like- 
wise at our Quarterly meeting at Easton, and return- 
ed home on the 22d of the 11th month. 

1st mo. 13th, 1805. At our little meeting at May- 
field, the Lord opened my understanding in a re- 
markable manner, and I was led in public testimony 
to treat of the one thing needful for all to attend to, 
namely, our own gifts placed in our minds individu- 
ally; and that it was the same Divine gift which the 
righteous in all ages had to attend to, in order that 
their steps might be directed aright: also that it was 
the same in this gospel day, by which the faithful 
are enabled to fear God and work righteousness so as 
to be accepted of him. Under a humbling sense of 
the heavenly power attending, my heart and knees 
were bowed in solemn prayer to Almighty God, to 
whom all praise, adoration, and renown belongeth 
forever and ever. 

About this time, it appeared right for me to sell 
my farm at Easton, and purchase one here in order 
for a permanent settlement the remainder of my days. 
I accordingly bought a small tract of land, and re- 
moved on it with my family. This I did under a 
sense of religious duty; and not for the sake of add- 
ing to my estate. But I have seen the danger of self- 
interest being so mixed with our best intentions (es- 
pecially in removing from one place to another) that 
it gets the pre-eminence in the mind, and bears such 
sway that people are apt to mistake it for something 
higher, and so take darkness for light as to bring 
themselves into many trials and difficulties, which 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 139 

might have been avoided by keeping in humility, 
and strictly maintaining the watch. In the sale of my 
property at Easton, I had much trouble and perplex- 
ity, and great anxiety in order to meet my engage- 
ments, being several times disappointed; yet, as I had 
acted on a principle of religious duty, I had a hope 
of getting through so that my character and the cred- 
it of society should not suffer by any delay or defi- 
ciency. And so it was, after all my trials, difficulties, 
and anxieties, that I was favored to meet my engage- 
ments, and was carried through all to my own satis- 
faction, and that of my friends in general: and it 
hath been a confirmation to me that I am here an in- 
habitant of this place in the Lord's will; praises be 
to him forever and ever. 

In the 5th month, I attended the Quarterly meet- 
ing at Easton, and in the 6th, our monthly meeting 
at Gal way. I also attended a marriage which was 
solemnized at Mayfield meeting. Being the first in 
these parts in the way of Friends, many people came 
as spectators, who behaved civilly, and I had an op- 
portunity to declare the Truth among them, under a 
sense of Divine aid. About this time, I had an exer- 
cising trial with one of my neighbours, not a member 
of our society, who often attended our little meeting, 
with his family, and sometimes offered something by 
way of public testimony. But as his conduct was not 
regular, his communications became very burden- 
some; and as there was no male elder among us, it 
lay upon me to request him to refrain from speaking 
among us: so I took a solid opportunity, and laid 
things fairly and honestly before him, advising him 
to be silent for the future, for that his testimony 
could not be received in the unity. All this he seem- 



140 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

ed to bear with a good degree of patience; but he 
afterwards absented himself from our meetings. 

In the 8th month, being under appointment with 
two elders from the select meeting to visit a Friend 
who had given some uneasiness on account of his 
public communications, we took an opportunity with 
him. In this interview, we informed him that inas- 
much as Friends could not unite with him in believ- 
ing he was rightly called to the ministry, — and as 
the uneasiness with his appearances had been of sev- 
eral years continuance, — and also that he had been 
several times admonished and advised in the case, he 
might now feel himself clear and fully excused from 
offering any thing in public. He received our re- 
marks with becoming patience, and did not appear 
stubborn or self-willed. But Oh! how hard it is to 
deal with a lifeless ministry, especially if the words 
in themselves are good, and yet lack the life and 
power in their delivery. I am afraid that a number of 
ministers among us as a society, are too much caught 
in this snare. They seem to think they have a talent 
for speaking, and can remember the scriptures so as 
to quote them, and thereby strengthen or embellish 
their discourses (as they think) so as to make a pretty 
fair argument; concluding from this that they are call- 
ed to the ministry. These at best are clothed but in 
part with the garments of the priesthood; they may 
have the bells, but want the pomegranates, which 
seems to me the most material part; for what is 
sound, without the savour of life? 

22nd. We were visited by our friends, Zopher 
Green, Ruth Hallock, and Sarah Hull, from Nine 
Partners, and they had a favoured meeting with us; 
also a precious opportunity at parting. Soon after this 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 141 

my mind sunk so low that I seemed for several weeks 
as in the valley of the shadow of death. At length, 
the candle of the Lord was again lighted in my heart 
by the well-spring of Divine life arising; and then I 
could say with Solomon, "To every thing there is a 
season, and a time for every purpose under heaven ;" 
which I understand in a spiritual sense; and may add, 
there are spiritual days and nights, as well as natural 
ones: for so in my measure I have found it by expe- 
rience. After this, the spring of the gospel ministry 
again opened and flowed through me, in several of 
our little meetings, to the watering of the flock and 
family of the Lord's heritage. 

Thus enlargement has followed after a night sea- 
son of gloominess, in which the spiritual atmosphere 
seemed all overcast with clouds, so that I could not 
discover even a star to give me light, so as to make 
a step with any degree of safety. In this state, I found 
it safest to endeavour to stand still, and trust in the 
salvation of the Lord: but even in this exercise, it is 
sometimes difficult to attain to a sufficient stability of 
mind; for when we are surrounded with distress on 
every hand, it seems natural for us to strive to help 
ourselves in some way or other, in order that we 
may become extricated from these trials. Happy are 
those that attain to a true stability of mind, possess- 
ing their souls in patience, and thus maintaining the 
spiritual watch or warfare in a right manner through 
the night season to the springing of the day, and till 
the sun of righteousness again arises in the soul; for 
then it is that we may see clearly as in day-light 
how to take safe steps in our heavenly journey. Oh! 
the preciousness of spiritual day-light! It is not in 
the power of words to describe it. 



142 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

On the 7th of 2nd mo. 1806, I set out with my 
wife and son William, to attend our Quarterly meet- 
ing at Easton. On first-day the 9th, I was at Milton 
meeting; but the weather was exceedingly boisterous 
and windy, the timber falling very thickly, with 
limbs and pieces of bark flying almost continually in 
every direction, — so that we went to meeting as it 
were at the risk of our lives; yet, through the mer- 
cy of God, we escaped unhurt. But the meeting was 
very small; only four men and two women attend- 
ing. At our Quarterly meeting we had the accept- 
able company and edifying labours of Mary New- 
bold and Elizabeth Coleman from Burlington, New 
Jersey, and Henry Hull from Stanford. The women 
Friends were also at our monthly meeting at Gal- 
way, the 19th. From thence my wife and I set out 
to visit some requesters at Western, being nearly one 
hundred miles distant. On the 20th, we went on, 
with several other Friends under appointment of 
the monthly meeting, making two sleigh loads, and 
three men on horseback. Next day we travelled 
through the woods and over hills and rocks, till we 
came to a new settlement in a town called Stratford; 
where we were stopped by reason of a bridge over 
a large stream of water having been washed away 
the evening before. There appearing to be no way 
to gain our ground without going thirty miles round, 
and several other sleighs loaded with goods, men, 
women, and children coming up, our situation was 
very trying; but most of the men set out to repair 
the bridge, so that we might at least cross on foot 
and ford the horses over. While this was going on, 
my mind became much exercised about having a 
meeting among the people of the settlement; and a 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 143" 

little before night, one of the inhabitants came to 
me and inquired whether Friends thought to have a 
meeting among them that evening; saying he thought 
there would be great openness to attend it. On con- 
sulting with Friends, a meeting was accordingly held 
at half past seven, and was attended by a considera- 
ble number of people, considering the shortness of 
the notice; and to me it appeared to be a precious 
visitation to many of them. Next day, our company 
got over on the newly constructed bridge, and the 
other travellers might also have got over safely had 
they been more prudent; but on attempting to take 
a loaded sleigh across, the weight of it and the men 
who were drawing and pushing it, was too much, and 
one of the string-pieces broke, precipitating them all 
into the rapid stream below: but, through favour they 
all got out safe. On the 24th we reached Zacheus 
Hill's in Western; and after visiting those who had 
requested to be received into membership, and hav- 
ing a good meeting among them and divers of their 
neighbours, we returned home: where, through much 
hard labour and fatigue, we arrived on the last day 
of the 2d month. 

4th month 20th. Of late an opposing spirit has 
threatened to break the peace and destroy the unity 
of some of the members of our little meeting; w T hich 
very much affected my mind. But by timely care 
this evil spirit was frustrated, and Friends settled in 
peace and harmony again. Oh! how good and pro- 
fitable it is to keep on the watch-tower, so as to dis- 
cover all the assaults of an enemy in proper season 
to resist him; for it is much easier to oppose an evil 
spirit in his early approaches, than when suffered to 
enter and keep his ground in the heart for any length 
of time. 



144 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

21st. I went on foot to our preparative meeting, 
and thenee through heavy rain to the select prepara- 
tive meeting at Gal way; also attended the monthly 
meeting there, in which I had a very close, search- 
ing testimony from this portion of scripture, " Take 
us the foxes, the little foxes that spoil the tender 
vines/' As it then opened in my understanding, I 
had to set forth the nature of the foxes; how cunning 
they were, and that they were said to have many 
cunning artifices to catch their prey; and also very 
secret hiding places, or holes in the earth, — often- 
times getting so deep that it required very hard la- 
bour and a good resolution to dig them out. All 
this was applied in a spiritual sense, though I was 
ignorant of the cause, until the meeting for business 
opened; in the course of which the subtil nature of 
the fox showed itself openly, but soon darted into 
its hole and hid itself as well as it could. Let all 
beware of this cunning spirit of human policy, es- 
pecially in the exercise of discipline and religious 
concerns. 

9th mo. 12th. I have passed through another sea- 
son of deep exercise and travail of spirit, in which I 
have had to believe that I was baptized for the dead, 
and brought to feel for some others that concern 
which they scarcely feel for themselves, by reason 
of the great stupidity that prevails in their minds, 
occasioned for want of a lively concern being main- 
tained for their own good. During this exercising 
time, my beloved friends, Pardon Macomber and 
David Rowland having some meetings in these parts 
sent me word that they thought of having one in this 
neighbourhood, and proposed my joining them in the 
concern. This I readily accepted, having felt a like 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 145 

concern for some time; and we had a satisfactory 
meeting in a neighbourhood of people not far from 
my dwelling, who made no profession to religion. 
The spring of gospel ministry flowed freely, tending 
to stir them up to a serious thoughtfulness of their 
latter end. Next day, my wife and I accompanied 
Pardon Macomber to a meeting over the bow of the 
river, among the Methodists, and one in the after- 
noon among the Baptists at Northfield. The day 
following we attended another meeting at Provi- 
dence, to satisfaction, and then parting with our 
friend Pardon, we returned home. 

11th mo. 2nd. Although I sometimes fear I shall 
make my account seem tedious to some, by so often 
reciting the favours I have received from the heaven- 
ly Master; — yet, because they are always new to me, 
they are refreshing and encouraging; and I think I 
ought not only to write them down with pen, ink 
and paper, but also imprint them in my thoughts and 
on my heart: for surely they ought to be esteemed 
by me more precious than jewels of gold. On the 
5th, we had a good meeting, increased by the atten- 
dance of our friends, Gideon Mollineux and James 
Hallock, of New Marlborough monthly meeting. — 
Oh! how sweetly did Gideon, that son of consolation, 
water our little flock! So that I believe we were all 
fully convinced that the Lord hath not yet forsaken 
his heritage: praises to his name forever. 

12th month 21st. In our silent meetings of late, I 
have felt peace in believing that the heavenly Master 
himself was teaching his little flock and family the 
use of silence, and where to look for Divine help; 
that is, inwardly, in our own hearts and minds, in- 
dividually; where we may all find the very best of 
13 



146 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

leaching: for Christ teacheth in the heart as never 
man taught; that is, with life, authority and preci- 
sion. 

On the 18th of the 1st month, 1807, I was again 
greatly favoured in public testimony; although I had 
laboured hard for a silent meeting, feeling much un- 
willingness so often to expose myself in this public 
way. But through Divine help I was enabled to see 
with clearness that obedience is the best sacrifice; 
whether it be in speaking or in silence. Oh! may 
the heavenly Father keep me to it, till all self in me 
is truly brought under in humble submission to his 
blessed will. Considering the many favours 1 have 
received, my heart felt humbled and this prayer arose? 
Lord, keep and preserve me through heights and 
depths, so that I may bring no dishonour to thy holy 
name. 

25th and first of the week, a silent meeting to-day, 
in which I was well satisfied that if people do not 
learn the usefulness of true silence, all the preaching 
in the world will do them little good. 



Having had drawings in my mind for some time, 
to visit the few Friends and some others in and about 
Western, I set out in company with my wife, and 
reached there on the 28th of 1st month. Next day* 
attended their fifth-day meeting, which was a solemn, 
profitable time; and the day following had a meeting 
about five miles westward, in which I was led to 
treat on baptism and the supper (so called) in a par- 
ticular manner, setting forth what the true baptism 
and supper are. In giving a description of this baptism, 
I was favoured to set it forth in so clear a light that I 
was led to query with them, whether they thought 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 147 

that if a person was truly and spiritually baptized or 
exercised therein, and lived a righteous life, though 
never dipped or sprinkled with water, such person 
would be lost at last, or at the winding up of time? 
And, on the other hand, whether all, or even any 
that were dipped or sprinkled with water, and yet 
never had experienced the inward or spiritual bap- 
tism, were saved? And, if Spirit-baptism was saving 
without the help of water,— and if water-baptism 
was not saving without the Spirit, — then it was the 
Spirit-baptism that was the true and saving bap- 
tism: and therefore water-baptism was not worth 
contending for. During my communication, the 
meeting seemed to be in a solemn, tender frame, and 
so continued till the close. I afterward understood 
the people were mostly Baptists. 

After visiting some families, and attending the 
meeting at Western on first-day, which was large and 
a good meeting, we set out homewards. In the even- 
ing, in company with Pardon Macomber, we had a 
meeting at Steuben; in which I was nearly silent, 
but Pardon had a lengthy testimony to the relief of 
my mind: after which I just told them, that though 
Paul may plant and Apollos water, it is God that 
giveth the increase, and my prayers were that God 
would give them the increase or blessing of the right 
use of this meeting, Next day, we came on home- 
wards and had an evening meeting at Norway; being 
the first Friends' meeting held in that part of the 
country. May the service of it be like bread cast 
upon the waters, that may be found hereafter. We 
reached home the 4th of 2d month, where we found 
my brother-in-law, Benjamin Coon and his wife my 
sister Rachel, with their daughter Phebe, on a visit 



148 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

to us from Easton: of whose company I was truly 
glad; they being near to me in the best sense, as well 
as outward relationship. Next day I set out with 
them in order to attend our Quarterly meeting at 
Easton; where I met with our friends Henry Hull 
from Stanford, and Richard Mott from near New 
York. They had good service among us, and it was 
a favoured meeting; though very large, yet remarka- 
bly still and quiet. Richard was eminently favoured 
in the public meeting, the gospel flowing from his 
lips about two hours, like the running of a clear river 
of water. 

Under a concern to visit the meetings within the 
limits of Queensbury monthly meeting, I left home 
on the 24th of the 2d month, 1807, accompanied by 
my wife, and was at the monthly meeting, and the 
meeting at Chester. I also visited several Friends' 
families, and returned by way of Greenfield mid- 
week meeting and through Galway, reaching home 
the 5th of 3d month. After which I steadily attend- 
ed our own meetings when in health, but had seasons 
of much inward poverty and discouragements. Yet 
in my lowest seasons, I remembered that my heaven- 
ly Father had loved me, and I felt a little hope that 
he would love me to the end: this kept me from be- 
ing swallowed up by the waves of affliction. But 
blessed be his holy name, he hath again lifted up my 
head, and enabled me to bear a living testimony to 
his blessed Truth in our meeting at Northampton, 
this 7th day of the 6th month, 1807. 

9th mo. 20th. For some time past, I have seen so 
little utility in keeping up this account of my life, 
that I have omitted it: but of late the charge given 
to the disciples has been brought to my recollection, 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 149 

ix Gather up the fragments, that nothing may be lost," 
and I have been induced to pen it down, hoping that 
at least some of my remarks may be like bread cast 
on the waters that may be found again after many 
days, to the refreshment of some poor tribulated 
soul. 

Being under appointment, with several other 
Friends of our monthly meeting, to visit the Friends 
settled at Black river, a remote part of our monthly 
meeting, I felt so poor and unequal to the task that I 
sought many excuses. But Benjamin Peck, a Friend 
of Milton, came to my house on the 1st of the 1st 
month, 1808, in order to join in the visit; and next 
day we set out on the journey, though very much in 
the cross to my mind. The weather being cold, and 
I advanced in years, and w T ithal feeling so poor in 
spirit, that I thought there was little prospect of my 
doing or receiving any good. However, in the even- 
ing we overtook the other friends of the committee, 
and had a long conference with the landlord at the 
inn where we lodged, on the subject of using com- 
pliments; — calling the days of the week and of the 
months after heathen idols; — taking oaths, and water- 
baptism. He appeared satisfied with our way of ex- 
plaining our views on these subjects, and acknow- 
ledged that he had never before seen them in the 
same light. The day following, at the inn where we 
stopped to bait our horses, we had conversation with 
the man and his wife on the subject of baptism, 
(they being of that persuasion) insomuch that both 
of them were tendered, and we left them with friend- 
ly feelings. Thence, through a snow storm and se- 
vere cold weather, we travelled on till we came to 
our friend Joseph Child's, in the town of Le-Ray, near 
13* 



150 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

Black river, where we were kindly received. Finding 
there were three settlements of Friends in these 
parts, we concluded to appoint a meeting at each; 
and on the 6th of 1st mo. attended the first, at which 
we met with our friends, Pardon Macomber and 
Zaccheus Hill. Although the fore part of this meet- 
ing was trying to me; yet Truth gained the victory 
at last, notwithstanding some things w T ent close and 
trying. The next was to pretty good satisfaction; 
and the third, a highly favoured one, at a place where 
I had most dreaded to go, on account of their being 
great people (as I thought) for some of them were rich 
in this world: but this last meeting seemed as the 
crown of all, and I was truly glad that I had given 
up to visit them; although my nature was loth to 
yield to it. Here may be another lesson of instruc- 
tion, that there is strength in weakness, as we are 
given up in true faithfulness, trusting in the Lord 
alone. 

On the 8th, we set off homewards through a tedi- 
ous snow storm, and in the evening attended a meet- 
ing appointed for us at Lowville, a place where no 
Friends reside. We had a good opportunity to de- 
clare Truth to the people to satisfaction; though some 
of them seemed unacquainted with the nature of si- 
lent worship. Next day we attended Friends' meet- 
ing at Western, where we met with our friend Phebe 
Field, and some others; and there being a meeting 
appointed for our said friend at a school house in the 
evening, we attended that also, and it was a favoured 
time. The day following, we travelled forty-seven 
miles through a storm of hail and rain; a more tedi- 
ous time I have rarely met with; our clothes being 
frozen stiff as boards. Lodged at an inn, and on the 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 151 

11th, we reached home. Praises be to the Lord for 
all his favours, henceforth and forever. 

On the Sth of the 5th month, I left home in order 
to attend our Quarterly meeting at Easton, and also 
if way opened, to attend our approaching Yearly 
Meeting at New York; but on the way I took a great 
cold, and was so much unwell that I had to leave the 
meeting for discipline, and w r as confined to the house 
for two days. On the 15th, being a little better, and 
having a desire to sit with Friends at Half-moon, I 
went there and attended their meeting next day, to 
the peace of my mind. Lodged at William Gary's, 
a Friend of that place and a doctor; and in discours- 
ing with him, I told him I had a desire to attend the 
Yearly Meeting, but was under some discouragement 
on account of my poor health, and some other things. 
He removed all my difficulties, and I took new cou- 
rage to go on; thinking that, considering my advan- 
ced age and declining constitution, with the great 
distance from my habitation, it might be the last 
time I should ever attend the Yearly Meeting. Next 
day, we went on board a sloop at Troy, and had a 
good passage of fifty-two hours, down the North 
river to New York. About thirty passengers were 
on board, and we had a good meeting in the cabin, 
in which several of us had some public service. 

While in New York, I lodged with our kind friend 
Richard R. Lawrence. The Yearly Meeting of min- 
isters and elders began on the 21st of the 5th month. 
Next day, the meetings for worship at Pearl and 
Liberty streets were very large, both fore and after- 
noon. At that held at Liberty street, I had some 
public service; but there being several ministering 
Friends from Pennsylvania, Baltimore, and other 



152 JOURNAL OP RUFTJS HALL. 

places, with large gifts, I thought it my place to be 
as still as possible, lest I should stand in the way of 
some greater service. I am afraid this care is not al- 
ways so well observed as it ought to be; yet I cannot 
advise any to omit any clearly manifest duty, but obey 
the injunction of Christ to watch. 

Many weighty matters came before Friends at this 
Yearly Meeting, which were considered with much 
solidity and unity; and truly I thought I had never 
attended a more favoured Yearly Meeting. Blessed 
be the Lord for all his benefits. On the 28th, we 
went on board the sloop, and arrived at Troy on the 
1st of the 6th month; thence, taking Friends' meet- 
ing at Ballstown on the way, I reached home on the 
3d, and found my wife and family well. 

6th mo. 25th. John Simpson from Pennsylvania, 
had a meeting appointed at our, meeting house, and 
it was a highly favoured season: life and light seem- 
ed to flow, as a river overflowing its banks. 

9th mo. 3d. Discouragements of late have induced 
me to omit making any memorandums of my life. 
And though I have little or no expectation of this 
journal ever being published for general use, yet I 
do not feel quite easy without leaving some account, 
for the use of my children particularly; and it may 
be that some others may read it when I am gone the 
way of the rest of mankind. If so, they may see how 
the Lord hath dealt with me at times; and at the pre- 
sent, I may gratefully acknowledge that he hath not 
forsaken me; though I still have in remembrance the 
wormwood and the gall, yet I have hope that he will 
sustain and strengthen me to the end. 



The 19th of the 11th month, 1809. It has been 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 153 

more than a year since I have recorded any thing in 
this account: during which time I have passed thro' 
divers trials and exercises of various kinds; some- 
times cast down so low that I could see little hope 
of rising again: — then light would spring up un- 
expectedly, to my great encouragement; so that in 
some of these favoured season's, I saw there was dan- 
ger of soaring too high; and this hath humbled my 
soul, with thanksgiving and praise to the great Pre- 
server of my best life. But through all, I have been 
able to attend our religious meetings, and also some 
of those in Stanford Quarterly meeting; namely, 
Duanesburg monthly meeting, held at Otego; Bur- 
lington, and the newly-set-up meeting at Butternuts. 
I have also felt at times a growing concern to visit 
the meetings of Friends to the southward, belonging 
to our Yearly Meeting. After some time, being in 
company with my dear friend David Howland, a 
Friend in the ministry, it came livingly before me 
to ask him whether he had not some thoughts of 
making a visit to the southward ? After a pause of 
silence, he said he had such thoughts, but had not 
mentioned the subject to any one; neither should he 
then, if I had not asked him. When I opened my 
prospect to him, he said, " Perhaps it may be right 
for us to go together." So we let the matter rest for 
that time. Some time after, we conferred together 
again upon the subject, when the way appeared open 
to lay our concerns before the monthly meeting; and 
David did so, obtaining a minute of concurrence for 
that purpose: but I could not feel sufficient life in 
the concern to open it to Friends, at that time. 

After passing through various trials for several 
months, the prospect of this religious visit so re- 



154 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

vived that I could not have true peace and satisfac- 
tion, until I laid it before our monthly meeting for 
the sympathy and concurrence of my friends; and 
they uniting with me therein, gave me a minute for 
that purpose. May the Lord's presence go with me, 
and preserve me through all my future trials, to his 
honour and praise, is "the sincere desire of my soul. 
On the 13th of the Sth month, 1810, I left home 
to proeeed on my visit to the meetings in the south- 
ern Quarterly meetings. After attending our Quar- 
terly meeting at Easton, I went on to White Creek, 
where a meeting was appointed for Joseph Hoag and 
myself, which we attended on the 17th. Thence 
taking meetings at Pittstown and the Manor, I was 
at Saratoga monthly meeting. Then, having Nathan 
Eddy for a companion, I attended meetings at Du- 
anesburg, Berne, Rensselaerville and Middleburg; at 
the latter, we had the company of our friend Chris- 
topher Healy. 2Sth. Had a very satisfactory meet- 
ing at Oak-hill; next day attended their mid-week 
meeting at Stanton Hill, or Coeyman's. Lodged at 
Wm. Bedell's, and in the evening of the day follow- 
ing, had a favoured meeting at Athens. 31st. Tra- 
velled to Little Esopus, and next day had a meeting 
at that place to good satisfaction. Next, had a meet- 
ing at the Plains, and lodged at Jacob Coutant's; then 
to the house of our friend Gideon Mollineux at Paltz, 
where we had a meeting on the 3d of 9th month, to 
satisfaction. Thence taking meetings at Plattekill, 
New Marlborough, the Valley, Cornwall and Smith's 
Clove, we parted with our friend Samuel Adams who 
had accompanied us to the last four. We then had 
a meeting at the Upper Clove, and lodged at James 
Cromwell's. 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 155 

11th. Set out in company with Daniel Bull, and 
rode over the mountains to Kakiat, where, in the 
evening of the 12th, we had a meeting at the house 
of Daniel Odell, in which though I was favoured in 
testimony, yet it seemed like pouring water on 
stones: however, I felt clear in sounding an alarm 
among them. Then, after an evening meeting at the 
Sloat, we went on to New York city, where we at- 
tended the morning meeting at Liberty street, and 
the afternoon at Pearl street; both to good satisfac- 
tion. 17th. In company with Charles Collins, we 
went to Flushing on Long Island, and had a meeting 
there. Next day, at Cow Neck, and the day follow- 
ing were at Westbury monthly meeting, to satisfac- 
tion. Dined with our friend Gideon Seaman; and on 
the 20th, attended Jericho monthly meeting, which 
was a satisfactory season. Dined at our friend Elias 
Hicks's, and lodged at Fry Willis's: next day, had a 
laborious meeting at Bethpage, and the following 
day, we rested and wrote letters home. Lodged again 
at Elias Hicks's, and on first-day, the 23d, were at 
Matinicock meeting, a favoured time. Thence we 
crossed to York Island, and lodged at our friend John 
Barrow's. 25th, had a favoured meeting in a school 
house at Manhattan ville; next day were at West- 
chester mid-week meeting, and lodged at Adam 
Mott's. 27th, attended Mamaroneck week-day meet- 
ing, which was a trying time to me, so that I had 
hard work to get any relief. Thence we went to 
Middlesex in Connecticut, and lodged at Samuel 
Bishop's; having a meeting next day at Sam'l Whit- 
ton's, to good satisfaction. Thence to Purchase 
meeting on first-day morning, and one at Northcastie 
in the afternoon, both satisfactory. 



156 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

10th mo. 1st. Had a trying meeting at Shapaqua 
in the forenoon, and a good one at Croton Valley in 
the afternoon. Lodged at Daniel Sutton's; and next 
day went in company with Moses Sutton to Croton, 
where we attended a meeting appointed for Edward 
Brookes from London Grove, in Pennsylvania. 3d, 
attended Peekskill preparative meeting, and next 
day, accompanied by Stephen Brown, that at Salem, 
to good satisfaction. The day following, had a meet- 
ing at Amawalk, which was favoured. We then 
crossed the High-Lands to Oswego, and were at 
meeting there on first-day, the 7th. Lodged at my 
brother-in-law, Ladowick Hoxsie's, and rested there 
two days, except going to visit some of my relations 
and former acquaintances. 10th, was at their prepar- 
ative meeting; and next morning Nathan Eddy re- 
turned homeward: my brother-in-law, Ladowick, 
then accompanied me to West Branch preparative 
meeting, and also to a meeting at Pleasant Valley. 
On first-day, the 14th, we were at Apoquage meet- 
ing, and next day attended the monthly meeting 
held at Oblong; also one in the evening, appointed 
by James Hallock and Alexander Young, at a school 
house about six miles off; in which I found it my 
place to be silent, yet had good satisfaction. After 
attending the select preparative meeting at Oblong, 
I had an appointed meeting at the" Branch in the 
afternoon; and lodged at Brice Wing's. Next day, 
the 17th, went to New Milford, and had a meeting 
there. Next day, travelled about fifty miles to Charles 
Gilbert's, near Hartford in Connecticut, where next 
day we had a meeting to good satisfaction. We then 
went to John Camp's at Norfolk, and attended the 
first-day meeting at New Canaan; in which I was 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 157 

much favoured in public testimony. After this we 
returned to my brother-in-law Ladowick's, by way 
of Salisbury. 

23d. Attended the select preparative meeting at 
Oswego; and went to see our aged friend, Mary 
Griffin, who was in her hundredth year; and what 
was remarkable, although her natural faculties seem- 
ed almost exhausted, yet her spiritual ones were fresh 
and green as ever. In a little sitting we had with 
her, she preached a short, but lively testimony, to 
my admiration and comfort. She appeared to be en- 
tirely bound up in one bundle of love; and I verily 
thought she came the nearest to one that had so over- 
come as to be made a pillar in the church that should 
go no more out, that I had ever before seen. I have 
been acquainted with her these fifty years, and al- 
ways knew her to be an inoffensive woman, and an 
able minister of the gospel; to propagate which, she 
has sometimes travelled abroad to the general satis- 
faction of Friends; always returning in due season, 
bringing her sheaves of peace in her bosom. 

24th. Had a meeting at Chesnut Ridge, a trying 
time, and went to Isaac Thome's at Nine Partners: 
next day attended their mid-week meeting there, in 
which I had a short testimony. Lodged with my 
cousin Jonathan Duell; and on the 26th, had a meet- 
ing at Stanford, to my satisfaction; after which, I 
went with my cousin Jonathan to the widow Naomi 
Halsted's, and lodged there. Then had meetings at 
Crum-Elbow, and Creek, which were satisfactory; 
and on the 29th, went in company with David Hal- 
sted to a meeting at North-East. Next day, we were 
at Little Nine Partners, where we again met with 
Edward Brookes, and he had good service in the 
14 



158 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

meeting there. Thence I travelled alone to Hudson*,, 
and coming to the house of our aged friend Thomas 
Comstock, I consulted Friends of that city, and had 
a meeting appointed to be held in the evening of the 
31st. In this meeting,, the living spring of gospel 
ministry flowed freely to the people, to my admira- 
tion and comfort. Thanks be to the great Giver of 
every good gift. After this, I had meetings at Kline- 
killj New Britain, Hancock, Adams and Berlin, 
which were generally satisfactory opportunities: then 
attended the meeting at Troy on first-day, the 11th 
of 11th mon.th, and lodged at Joseph Breintnall's. 
Next day, went to my brother-in-law, Zebulon Hox- 
sie's, at Easton, where I met my wife to my joy and 
comfort, not having seen each other for about three 
months; in which time I had travelled to and fro 
over mountains and across vallies, as Truth opened 
the way, about nine hundred and fifty miles, and at- 
tended seventy meetings. 

After returning from my southern journey, I re- 
mained at and about home, attending meetings in 
course for near a year; in which time I passed thro' 
various trials, some of which were like deep bap- 
tisms: but I was preserved through all, and felt at 
times some drawings in my mind to visit Friends of 
Queensbury, Granville and Danby meetings, with 
some of the inhabitants of those parts who were not 
members: and perceiving a like concern in my friend 
Elihu Anthony, of Greenfield, we conclnded to go 
together. So we set out in the early part of the 11th 
month, 1811, and were at Queensbury monthly 
meeting on a very rainy day. Lodged at Caleb 
Deane's, and had a tendering opportunity in the fami- 
ly. Next day, had a meeting about eight miles north- 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 159 

ward, where some Friends reside; and another at 
Fort Ann in the evening; both favoured seasons. 
Lodged at William Moore's, and in the morning of 
the Sth, had a serious opportunity in the family; 
then set out with William for a guide, and had to pass 
a difficult and dangerous way, by reason of the waters 
of Wood creek having overflowed the banks, so that 
in many places we had to ride through deep water, 
and to go over hills and rocks, and along the sides 
of steep mountains, in order to gain our port, about 
six miles. In the evening we had a hard, laborious 
meeting among the Baptists and some others of that 
neighbourhood; in which we had little satisfaction, 
except the consciousness of having done the best we 
could. 

On first-day, the 9th, we attended Granville meet- 
ing, which was a favoured time. Next day, had a 
meeting among the Baptists at the house of Elihu's 
father-in-law. Thence we went to Danby and atten- 
ded the Quarterly meeting held there, and I believe 
Truth owned the several sittings thereof. After a 
meeting at White Creek, we came on to our Quar- 
terly meeting at Easton, and thence returned home 
with the reward of peace. 

In the 12th month, in company with my friend, 
David Howland, I made a little visit to the westward. 
The weather was cold and the riding difficult, but 
we had meetings at Uppington, Herkimer, Little 
Falls, and Boreman's Creek; some of which were 
trying seasons, and others satisfactory. 



Having had drawings on my mind for some time, 
to visit Friends to the westward as far as the Holland 
Purchase,! laid my concern before our monthly meet- 



160 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL* 

ing in the 8th month, 1813, and obtained a minute of 
concurrence therewith. On the 9th of the 9th month, 
I set out on the journey alone, and attended May- 
field meeting, where I met with my friend and cou- 
sin Jedidiah Allen, who agreed to bear me company 
part of the way. So we went on to Butternuts, and 
were at their meeting on first-day; in which I was 
favoured in testimony on the advantages of giving 
heed to small openings or impressions of duty on the 
mind. Here I met with my two brother-in-laws, 
Zebulon and Ladowick Hoxsie, who were willing to 
bear me company to Scipio. On the 13th, being four 
in number, we set out for Deruyter, and after lodging 
at my son Zebulon's at Oxford, we missed our road. 
In getting into the right way again, I had cause to 
put in practice the doctrine I delivered at Butternuts. 
There was a little meeting of Friends at Smyrna, 
several miles to the northward, as I thought, of our 
course to Deruyter, which had been in my mind se- 
veral times, but I said nothing about it to the com- 
pany, thinking whether it would be best to visit it 
before Deruyter or not. After we discovered that 
we were not going the right road, we turned back; 
and as we rode along, my brother Zebulon told me 
he nearly united with my testimony, alluding to the 
advantages of giving heed to small openings. While 
thus conversing, his horse stumbled and fell, throw- 
ing him off over his head; but he was not much hurt. 
After he had mounted again, I asked him whether 
we were not still wrong, and told him of my concern 
about the little meeting northward. He said it was 
worth thinking of: so we turned again and rode on 
to Smyrna that afternoon; and next day had a meet- 
ing there to good satisfaction; being much favoured 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 161 

in testimony among the people. I found on inquiry 
that in coming to this place first, I had saved one 
day's ride in my journey . t 

16th. Had a meeting at Deruyter to some relief 
of mind, and lodged at our friend Tiddeman Hull's. 
Thence taking meetings at Sempronius, Salmon 
Creek, Scipio, Union Springs, Junius and Palmyra, 
we reached our friend Caleb Macomber's. Here I 
parted with my companion Jedidiah Allen, he re- 
turning homewards, and Asa Aldrich took his place. 
On the 36th, we set out for my son William's at 
Hartland,in the Holland Purchase; and arrived there 
in two days travelling. Had a satisfactory meeting 
there, being the first Friends' meeting held in that 
plac€. Thence we rode two days to my son Isaac's 
at Hamburg, and on first-day attended their meeting 
to some satisfaction. Next day, we had a meeting at 
a Friend's house in Eden, and the day following, an- 
other in the same town; both to good satisfaction. 

10th mo. 13th. We attended the meeting at Con- 
cord, in which the life did not rise very high. It was 
with great difficulty we got through the wilderness 
to this meeting: much of the way the mud seemed 
up to the horses knees, and the snow as deep on the 
ground. The saplings being loaded with snow, bent 
and broke down, so that we got thoroughly wet. On 
our way back next day, we stopped at David Wood's, 
and saw the burning spring,which burned like spirits. 
On first-day we were at Hamburg meeting, in which 
life arose into dominion, to the comfort of the honest 
hearted. This afternoon there was a remarkable storm 
of wind and rain from the west, which brought in the 
waters of lake Erie, it was said, eight feet perpen- 
dicular higher than ever before known. It did much 
14* 



162 JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 

damage, by overflowing the banks, and two wagons 
loaded with household goods and families, that were 
travelling on the beach, were lost or stove to pieces; 
but no lives lost. Abundance of timber was also 
blown down by the wind. 

21st. Attended Hamburg preparative meeting, and 
also the funeral of a Friend's son, and had some ser- 
vice at both. Thence we travelled to Nathan Corn- 
stock's at Farmington; and on the 28th, attended 
their monthly meeting, to good satisfaction. Our 
friend Isaac Thorne of Nine Partners, was also there, 
and had good service. Here I parted with my kind 
friend Asa Aldrich, who had been very acceptably 
with me nearly four weeks, in very bad travelling; 
spending his time and money freely, with no other 
object than to bear me company: and I hope the 
Lord will bless him for it. On the 31st, had a meet- 
ing at Galen, at the house of David Bedel. Thence 
I set out homewards, and travelled on through West- 
moreland to New Hartford, where I attended their 
meeting to good satisfaction. 

8th of 11th month, I had an evening meeting at 
John Head's in Madison; also attended Brookfield 
and Bridge water meetings, on my way home, where 
I arrived on the 13th, and felt my mind relieved of 
a burden that had attended it for several months: 
and for all the favours and preservations witnessed, 
I feel thankful to the great Preserver of my life, to 
whom be praise, now and forevermore. In this jour- 
ney I was from home upwards of two months, — 
travelled by computation more than eight hundred 
miles, and attended twenty-six meetings. 



The 23rd of the 1st month, 1S14. Although I 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 163 

have experienced seasons of inward poverty, yet I 
can say my good Master has not forsaken me: he has 
at times lifted up the light of his countenance upon 
me, and animated my mind, enabling me to sound an 
alarm to some negligent ones, and also to beaV testi- 
mony to the comfort and edification of others, as 
well as myself. Thus, through his mercy I have felt 
the language of the wise king formerly: "Awake, 
north wind; and come, thou south; blow upon my 
garden, that the spices thereof may flow out. Let 
my Beloved come into his garden, and eat his plea- 
sant fruits." 

Mankind are so constituted that it is as needful 
and useful to experience the winter and the summer 
seasons spiritually, in the travail and exercise of the 
mind, — as it is for the outward world, in order that 
it may produce fruit in due season for the support of 
our natural bodies. It is observable, that the most 
fruitful parts of the earth are those where the summer 
and winter have their equal and regular course. Near 
the north pole, the soil is said to be barren and fro- 
zen, producing little or nothing that is profitable to 
mankind. So also it is with us in a spiritual sense. 
When we do not experience the heavenly sun-beams, 
or warming, animating influence of the sun of right- 
eousness, the love of God, to soften and enliven our 
hearts and minds, we become barren, dry and frozen. 
But, as the life of trees and vegetables is hid in itself 
through the cold, winter season, until the spring ap- 
proaches and the summer comes; — so is the Divine 
life of the soul hid with Christ in God, during our 
wintry seasons, until the Sun of righteousness arises 
and causes our hearts to feeT the warming, animating 
influence thereof. Then can we rejoice and sing as 



164 JOURNAL OP RUFUS HALL. 

Solomon did, who no doubt saw the need there was 
of going through these trying, proving seasons of 
poverty and strippedness of soul, feeling, as it were, 
the north or cold winds to blow, in a sense of our 
own frailties and weakness, until a cry is raised in the 
sincerity of the heart for Divine help and preserva- 
tion. Then, in due time, the south wind comes, or 
God arises in the soul, to its comfort and great satis- 
faction, causing " the spices to flow out." Having 
thus tasted of the Lord's goodness and mercy, it 
wishes well to all, and wants all to partake of the 
same goodness and loving-kindness; being so in love 
with the Divine presence that it can say with great 
propriety, " Let my Beloved come into his garden, 
and eat his pleasant fruits." 

13th of 2d mo. Set out from home with my wife, 
son-in-law Rufus Wood, and daughter Mary, to at- 
tend our Quarterly meeting, and was at all the sit- 
tings thereof; and to me it was a time of favour which 
I wish to remember with thankfulness of heart. 

Soon after my return home, I heard of the death 
of my near and dear friend, David Howland; which 
was a very close trial to me, for I loved him dearly. 
He was a very promising Friend, — had an eminent 
gift in the ministry, and was zealously concerned for 
the promotion of truth and righteousness; sparing no 
time nor pains in the propagation of pure religion 
among his friends and others. But he has been, as it 
were, snatched away by death in the prime or vigour 
of life, and is gone from works to rewards, where he 
now enjoys everlasting happiness, I make no doubt. 
He had been out from home, and on his return was 
taken ill at Thomas Wilbur's at Saratoga, where he 
died. 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 165 

About a week after, I heard of the decease of my 
eldest sister, Alice, wife of Zebulon Hoxsie, at Eas- 
ton. She was next to me in the family, and I had 
a near affection for her. But I was brought to ac- 
quiesce in the Divine disposal, and in both cases to 
say, Thy will be done. 

During the spring and fore part of the summer of 
1814, I was much unwell as to bodily health, but en- 
deavoured to be patient under my various exercises. 
On our way to attend our Quarterly meeting at Eas- 
ton in the 8th month, we were out in a remarkably 
severe thunder storm, which came on a little after 
sunset. We had just crossed the ferry at the narrows 
of Saratoga lake as it began to rain, and by the time 
we had gone about thirty rods, such a flash of light- 
ning came as I never saw before: it seemed to streak 
along on the ground and on the waters of the lake in 
an awful manner, with a terrible peal of thunder. For 
a great part of two hours, it seemed to be almost one 
continued flash of lightning and hard thunder, so 
that we had great difficulty in getting the horses 
along; for they would often stop and cringe with 
terror. But through the Lord's wonderful mercy we 
were all preserved unhurt; yet I do not remember 
ever hearing of so much damage done by a thunder 
storm in this country before. Many buildings were 
burned by the lightning; also several people and a 
number of cattle and horses were killed. 

The 13th of the 1st mo. 1815. I still continue in 
a weakly state of health, but am mostly favoured to 
get to meetings. And although I have had some try- 
ing seasons, yet, with humility I may acknowledge, 
I have been preserved through them all; and such 
has been the continued extension of Divine help, 



166 JOURNAL OF RTJFUS HALL. 

especially in my gospel labours in meetings, that I 
have sat very few of them in silence; my mind being 
livingly opened in the mysteries of the kingdom of 
heaven, and engaged to invite my brethren and sis- 
ters to taste and see that the Lord is good. Lord, 
hold me in thy hand forever. Thou didst keep and 
preserve me, in good measure, through my youthful 
days; Oh! leave me not now in old age: for I am 
sure thou art as able to save as ever. Thou art the 
same yesterday, to day and forever. May everlast- 
ing praises be given to thy holy name. Amen. 

I continued in feeble health until about the 1st of 
5th month, when I began to mend; and by the 14th, 
was so well as to be able to set out from home for 
the purpose of attending the Quarterly and Yearly 
Meetings, which I had a desire to attend once more. 
The day was unusually cold for the time of year, but 
I attended Mayfield meeting, and in the afternoon, 
in company with David Gardner and Abraham Cole, 
rode in a wagon about sixteen miles to John Hoxsie's 
at Galway. In the evening, I found I had taken a 
very heavy cold, and my old disorder, the gravel, 
with which I had at times been afflicted for several 
years, set in upon me with violence; so that I had 
to remain there about ten days. During this time I 
became very weak, so that I could hardly stand; but 
my beloved wife came to nurse me, which was some 
comfort to me in my afflictions. By placing me on 
a bed in a wagon, I was carried homewards about 
eleven miles to the house of a doctor, where we 
stayed about two weeks; and then with the Divine 
blessing, I was able to get home, though still very 
weak, and suffering much. 

Having had it on my mind for several months past, 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 167 

to call my neighbours together in the capacity of a 
religious meeting, it became very much of a trial to 
me. We kept up our little meeting twice a week, 
which our neighbours knew, but they seldom attend- 
ed, even when travelling Friends appointed meetings 
with us: yet they were generally kind neighbours, 
and moral, honest people, in their way. Since my 
return home, this concern revived very freshly, with 
a secret persuasion that I should soon get better of 
my disorder, if I would be faithful to it. On opening 
the subject to my friends, they mostly united with 
it, and the meeting was appointed to be held at my 
house on first-day afternoon. Accordingly they gen- 
erally met, and I had a full opportunity to clear my 
mind: for truly my heart was like a vessel that want- 
ed vent, I felt such love abound toward them. 

The subject that impressed my mind to commu- 
nicate, was on these words of scripture: " Steward, 
give an account of thy stewardship, for thou mayst 
be no longer steward:" setting forth, that although 
this passage was generally construed to apply to 
people on their death-beds; yet the substance of that 
language was daily sounded in the ear of our minds 
in the knowledge we had of the uncertainty of our 
time here: — and that, as we had all received gifts of 
the Almighty, for which we were accountable, — my 
concern was fir«t to call to the professors of every 
denomination, to consider seriously how far they had 
been faithful in discharging their duties, both as to 
their own individual cases, and also in bearing a faith- 
ful testimony against irregular conduct amongst their 
neighbours and acquaintance; — naming several prac- 
tices, as they occurred to my mind, that I thought 
were not warrantable for a christian to uphold, or 



168 JOURNAL OF RITFUS HALL. 

connive at by passing by them in silence. Then 
turning to the non-professors, I divided them into 
two classes; — moral and immoral; desiring those who 
were moral seriously to consider whether living a 
mere moral life, though honest as to dealings between 
man and man, — would be a sufficient warrant to them 
in the day of solemn account, when at last it should 
be said to them, Steward, give an account of thy 
stewardship, for thou mayst be no longer steward; — 
or whether there would not be a doubt of their hap- 
piness and peace; and if so, it was high time for them 
to be aroused to a more diligent attention to fulfil all 
their duties to God as well as men. Then, turning 
to the immoral and profane, such as sometimes suf- 
fered themselves to be intoxicated with strong drink; 
and such as gave way to passion, so as at many times 
to use profane language, cursing and swearing; and 
oftentimes even in their common discourse, — I press- 
ed upon them seriously to consider whether they 
were prepared to give in their account at the awful 
crisis, when the messenger of death should sound the 
alarm that time to them should be no longer. Much 
more livingly arose in my mind to communicate to 
the people; and I know not that I was ever more fa- 
voured with the Divine influence in public testimony, 
than I was that day. After which, my friend John 
White of Galway, had an open time among the peo- 
ple, and the meeting closed with solemn prayer to 
Almighty God. 

Soon after this, I got so much better in health and 
strength of body, that I got out to our meetings fre- 
quently, though in the seventy-second year of my 
age. And now, this 3rd day of the 11th mo. 1815, 
I can in humility say, that notwithstanding I have 



JOURNAL OF RUFUS HALL. 169 

been long afflicted, yet I have more cause to rejoice 
than to mourn: for, through all my trials, afflictions 
and exercises, even when I seemed to stand as it 
were on the brink of the grave, the thoughts of death 
were no great terror to me. At times also I felt the 
anchor of hope, that as my love to God was sincere, 
all would work together for good. 

And now, taking a retrospective view of my past 
life, — although I see many missteps which I made in 
my younger days, yet having long since sincerely 
repented of them, I fully believe I have been for- 
given: and for more than forty years, I have made it 
my principal and constant care to do the things that 
are right, both towards God and man. And though I 
cannot boast of any great good that I have done, yet 
the heavenly Master has many times spoken peace to 
my mind. He has not left me without a witness of 
his goodness and love, even in old age; for he hath 
visited me with his Divine and cheering presence, to 
my unspeakable comfort and satisfaction. And in my 
public testimonies, at divers times, in our little meet- 
ing here at Northampton, when I have been so af- 
flicted with bodily pain that I could scarcely get to 
meeting, yet believing it my duty to speak, he hath 
mercifully taken away all pain from me, so that I 
have felt as well as ever. Therefore, Lord, why 
should I doubt thy goodness and thy all-sufficiency 
to preserve me in my old age, seeing thou hast thus 
dealt with me. Rather let me give all praise, honour, 
glory and high renown to thee alone, now and for- 
evermore. Amen. 

Rufus Hall. 



15 



170 



LADOWICK HOXSIE'S MEMORIAL 

Concerning his brother-in-law Rufus Hall, who 
departed this life the 26th of the 5th month, 1818; 
aged seventy-four years, wanting about one month. 

My mind is affected, in reflecting on that near- 
ness and long-continued intimacy which subsisted 
between us. We interchanged many social letters 
and satisfactory visits, through the course of forty 
years past, which frequently had a tendency to quick- 
en and stir up that which was pure in my mind, — ■ 
keeping the w T ay open for a continued precious union 
and communion, in which enjoyment is, and therein 
he was to me a brother beloved. 

I apprehend it was some time in the early or fore 
part of his manhood, that the eye of his mind was 
more particularly opened to discover that the wages 
of vanity, disobedience and sin, was death; — but the 
effect of righteousness, through faith in the Illumi- 
nator, was life and peace: and through the tendering 
thereof he became willing to open the door of his 
heart (or understanding) and let in the Beloved of 
visited souls, the messenger of the covenant of life. 
As he endeavoured patiently to abide the day of his 
coming, so that strength might be afforded to stand 
when he appeared, he became prepared at length to 
offer a few words in some of our religious meetings, 
which were generally to the satisfaction of the living 
and judicious. Through dedication, he grew in his 
gift, and also in religious experience, and in time 
became an approved minister. He was a faithful la- 
bourer in the vineyard, being frequently engaged, in 
the love of the gospel, to fill up in the day-time, his 
allotted portion of labour in the church, to the com- 



MEMORIAL. 171 

fort of the living and the honour of the great Seeds- 
man. Frequently, in the exercise of his gift, when 
teaching others, he witnessed a being taught himself; 
and thereby knew how (or what it was) to " live of 
the gospel." 

His industry, upright intercourse among men, pa- 
ternal affection, example of plainness and simplicity, 
and patiently passing a life, interspersed with a va- 
riety of exercising vicissitudes; — these, to judicious 
beholders, manifested his faith, and his full belief 
and establishment in that powerful principle which 
he had witnessed to redeem and save from sin; and 
which is able to support the mind through all that it 
meets with, both in life and death; giving the soul 
a blessed hope and an unshaken assurance of being 
united to the heavenly host in the realms of ever- 
lasting bliss. 

I may further add — the last opportunity I had with 
him was in attending the first Quarterly meeting held 
at Galway. After the close of the last sitting, as he 
came out into the yard among the people, I w r ent to 
him and said, I must now take leave of thee; and 
perhaps it may be the last time. He took me by 
the hand, holding it fast, and said, as near as I can 
remember, thus: "More than thirty years ago, I 
with two other Friends went on foot to look for a 
new country. This place being then all a wilder- 
ness, we came here and sat down on an old log to 
rest. After sitting awhile quietly among the trees, 
I told them I had faith to believe the time would 
come that a meeting would be gathered near where 
we sat; even a monthly, and I did believe, a Quarter- 
ly meeting. And now I have lived to see it come 
to pass, and have attended it. So now, I'll bid thee 



172 TESTIMONY 

farewell. I am now going home/' Then letting go 
of my hand, he walked through the crowd of people 
towards home, and I saw him no more. 

And shall I mourn for him? Nay: he chose the 
path of heavenly wisdom; he loved to hear her voice, 
and obey her commands. He has filled up his mea- 
sure of sufferings here on earth, and laid down his 
head in peace. 

Ladowick Hoxsie. 



A TESTIMONY 

Of the monthly meeting of Galway concerning 

Rufus Hall. 

He was born in the town of Exeter, in the state 
of Rhode Island, the 8th of the 6th mo. 1744. His 
parents, Samuel and Dinah Hall, were members of 
our society, and careful to educate him in a manner 
consistent with its religious principles. And from 
his own account, he appears to have been sensible of 
serious impressions on his mind in very early life. 

About the tenth year of his age, his parents re- 
moved to Dutchess county, in this state; and he be- 
came exposed to the influence of vicious and unpro- 
fitable company, and through temptation and the 
levity incident to youth, he was frequently drawn 
into vanity and dissipation: but, being followed from 
time to time by the reproofs of instruction, and re- 
peatedly made sensible of the danger that awaited 
him, he at length became willing to deny himself 
the gratification of his evil propensities, and yielding 
to the humbling, sanctifying power of the spirit of 
truth, he therein experienced the consolation of his 
heavenly Father's love; and endeavouring to abide 



CONCERNING RUFUS HALL. 173 

under the influence of that which had thus measure- 
ably effected his emancipation from the power of evil, 
he witnessed an increase of strength, and an advance- 
ment in religious experience. Thus, through deep 
and repeated baptisms, he became prepared for ser- 
vice in the church, and appeared in public ministry 
about the twenty-sixth year of his age. 

In the exercise of his gift, he was careful not to 
minister without a renewed qualification; his lan- 
guage was plain and simple, and he often communi- 
cated instructive counsel from the most common 
occurrences. 

In the year 1775, he removed with his family to 
Saratoga (now Easton.) His first visit abroad was 
to Friends in New England, in which he suffered 
close exercise and conflict of mind; but endeavouring 
to attend strictly to the pointings of duty, he was 
favoured to accomplish it to the peace of his own 
mind, and we believe, to the satisfaction of those he 
visited. 

He also visited the families of Easton Quarterly 
meeting, which was at that time very extensive; and 
afterwards, Friends in the western parts of this state 
three times; Upper Canada, twice, and the southern 
Quarter of this Yearly Meeting, once; producing on 
his return, satisfactory accounts of the unity of Friends 
with his services amongst them. He likewise per- 
formed several other journeys of less extent. 

In the year 1804, under an apprehension of duty, 
he removed to Northampton, in the compass of this 
meeting; and while his health permitted, was dili- 
gent in the attendance of our religious meetings, and 
frequently concerned to encourage others to be faith- 
ful in the discharge of that important duty. 



174 TESTIMONY 

For several years, he suffered much bodily indis- 
position, which he bore with becoming patience and 
fortitude; and when able to attend meetings, was fre- 
quently strengthened to rise superior to the pressure 
of disease, and the increasing infirmities of age, and 
in the Sowings of gospel love, to bear testimony to 
the eificacy of the Divine principle of light and grace ; 
and to invite others to an increased submission and 
obedience thereto, that they might experience for 
themselves that the Lord is good. In him, we think, 
was verified the declaration of the Psalmist: "Those 
that be planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish 
in the courts of our God: they shall still bring forth 
fruit in old age; they shall be fat and flourishing." 
His indisposition increasing, he became confined to 
his bed the forepart of the 5th month. At one time, 
being turned on his side, he complained of much dis- 
tress, and said, " If it was for the best, he hoped it 
was the last time" — adding: " I see nothing in my 
way, but desire to be patient, and wait the Lord's 
time." Soon after, he uttered the following prayer: 
" Lord, how many times have I felt the incomes 
of thy divine love — why should I doubt any longer? 
Lord,. forsake me not now in my most trying mo- 
ments; but bear me up as in the hollow of thy hand; 
take me from this body, if it be thy will, that I may 
be**lelivered from these afflictions, and enjoy thy 
peace, wdiich has been reserved for me, and for all 
those that love the appearance of the Lord Jesus 
Christ." 

A few days after, he appearing better, something 
was said respecting his getting about again ; he replied, 
that if he should, it would be a miracle; and added, 
" 1 have nothing to do but to be patient, and endure 



CONCERNING RUFUS HALL. 175 

to the end, for it is the end that crowns all." At an- 
other time he said, " My work is done" — and soon 
after expired, the 26th of the 5th month, ISIS, aged 
nearly seventy-four years. 



Ji short account of William Odell. 

William Odell was born in the year 1755, in 
Fairfield county, Connecticut, of parents who were 
by profession Presbyterians; and he received his 
education among that people. About the twenty- 
fourth year of his age, he removed to Ballstown, 
Saratoga county, New York. In this new situation, 
being brought into a state of serious thoughtfulness, 
he became convinced that the religion he had pro- 
fessed was merely traditional, and not sufficient for 
him to depend upon. After much exercise of mind, 
and many humiliating seasons of conflict, as he con- 
tinued to seek the Lord with desires to be rightly 
instructed, he became convinced of the inward prin- 
ciple of Truth: and as he attended to the dictates 
thereof, he was led to seek for a people that were 
concerned to walk by the same rule and to mind the 
same guide. Hearing of a meeting of Friends, about 
eighteen miles from where he lived, he attended it 
to his satisfaction, and in due time became a member. 
Such were his zeal and concern to meet with Friends 
to wait upon the Lord, that he often travelled that 
distance on foot, and returned home the same dzy. 

As he continued faithful to manifested duty, he 
grew in grace, and became qualified to receive a gift 
in the ministry. Being Divinely called to this work, 
he was constrained, in gospel love, to tell unto others 
what the Lord had done for his soul; and also to in- 



176 A SHORT ACCOUNT OF WILLIAM ODELL. 

vite the attention of the people to the Word nigh in 
the heart. He likewise manifested a concern for the 
right ordering of the affairs of the church, and was 
engaged to impart suitable counsel and caution to his 
children. As a neighbour, he was kind and affec- 
tionate; as a friend, he possessed great sincerity, and 
was well esteemed by those who knew him. 

He was taken ill of the bilious cholic, on the 3rd 
of the 7th month, 1805, and mentioned the uncer- 
tainty how his disorder would terminate; but said, 
if the Lord had no further service for him, he had 
no desire to live longer. On the 5th, he said to his 
children, " I shall leave you exposed on every hand, 
but I want you to do well." Next day, he suffered 
much bodily distress, and was asked whether he was 
not discouraged. He cheerfully answered, " No, my 
child; there is nothing to discourage me. If I die, 
there is no cause of discouragement." 7th. He ex- 
pressed his love to his friends and neighbours who 
visited him. Next day, on observing the grief of 
his children, he said to them, " Get down to that 
which gives strength;" and prayed for their preser- 
vation. He then said, " I am very unwell, yet I feel 
nothing to discourage. But, Oh! it is a great thing 
to be prepared to die; and they are unwise who put 
it off till the closing scene: it is the business of life. 
I feel my mind quiet, and centred in the ocean of love 
and infinite goodness." 

Thus, at his death, he w r as established in what he 
had believed and been concerned to propagate in his 
life. He quietly expired on the 8th of the 7th mo. 
1805, aged about fifty, and a minister about twelve 
years. 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 



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